Hukporti continues rising up NBA Draft boards

After re-establishing himself as the best defensive big-man in the NBL, Ariel Hukporti’s name has continued to rise up NBA Draft boards.

Having started each of United’s first 10 games and playing a significant role in MU’s ladder-leading 8-2 record, Hukporti is averaging career-best numbers in scoring (9.7 points) and rebounding (8.7 rebounds).

His play has seen ESPN Draft Expert Jonathan Givony vault the Next Star up to the 44th ranked player; and seventh ranked center, in the 2024 NBA Draft class.

Givony, who watched Hukporti in person at the NBL Blitz and followed his season closely across the opening six rounds of action, lauded the work the big-man has put into his body post-injury and believes the eyes of NBA teams are firmly locked on him each time he steps on the court.

“At 7-feet, 250 pounds, Hukporti stands out immediately from a physical standpoint and was difficult for NBL big men to contain when catching the ball in stride with a runway and exploding off two feet,” Givony wrote.

“Hukporti should have a good stage to show he's worthy of a draft pick in an NBL campaign that will have significant NBA eyeballs every time he steps on the floor.”

Hukporti will next take to the court in United’s road Throwdown XXII matchup with the SEM Phoenix on Sunday afternoon at John Cain Arena.

Fans can tune into the blockbuster matchup live and free on 10 Peach or Kayo Freebies.