FIBA Recap: The Standout Players From Summer Competition
With the FIBA U19 World Cup and U20 EuroBasket in the books, these are the standout players to monitor in the 2026 NBA Draft cycle and beyond.
With both the FIBA U19 World Cup and U20 EuroBasket tournaments behind us, we've witnessed some of the world's most promising young talent compete on basketball's biggest international stages. These events have served as crucial evaluation opportunities for NBA scouts, offering glimpses of several domestic and international players who could help shape the 2025 and 2026 draft classes.
From proven performers who solidified their standing to breakout performers who announced themselves to the basketball world, this comprehensive look at the tournaments' top prospects provides a roadmap for the names to watch as the draft cycle begins in earnest.
The Standouts
Christian Anderson | 6'2", Point Guard | Germany
Christian Anderson continued to build on his reputation as one of Europe's most promising young point guards during Germany's strong U19 World Cup showing. The incoming Texas Tech sophomore displayed the steady leadership and improving shooting stroke that should make him a key contributor in Lubbock this season. After a slow shooting start in the tournament, Anderson found his rhythm and finished with impressive 43/38/68 splits through five games. His 6.2 assists per game ranked fourth among all players, and he demonstrated solid decision-making by limiting turnovers despite high usage. Anderson's highlight moments came in a standout performance against Australia—18 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists while being guarded by elite defender Dash Daniels—showcasing the type of two-way impact that could elevate his draft stock with another strong college season.
Neoklis Avdalas | 6'9", Point Guard | Greece
Neoklis Avdalas should have been a first-team All-Tournament selection at the U20 EuroBasket, delivering the type of elite playmaking performances that showcased his potentially lottery-level talent. Standing at 6-foot-9 with guard-like ball-handling, exceptional court vision, reliable perimeter shooting and athleticism, Avdalas has firmly positioned himself among the top-tier talents in international basketball. What makes him truly special is his ability to operate as a legitimate point guard despite his size, excelling in pick-and-roll situations with the type of court vision and decision-making that's rare at his position. The 19-year-old signed with Virginia Tech after withdrawing his name from the 2025 NBA Draft, where some believed he would've been a second-round pick. Having already tested the NBA draft waters and performed well in scrimmages, Avdalas represents the type of transformational talent that could redefine Virginia Tech's program while positioning himself as a premier prospect for the 2026 draft.
Mikel Brown Jr. | 6'2", Point Guard | USA
Mikel Brown Jr. unquestionably established himself as the premier point guard of the U19 World Cup, delivering a masterclass in efficiency and playmaking that elevated his draft stock significantly. His statistical profile was nothing short of spectacular—48/53/85 shooting splits combined with 6.6 assists per game against just 2.2 turnovers, creating a pristine 3:1 assist-to-turnover ratio that demonstrated elite decision-making and court vision. Brown's ability to combine volume production with exceptional efficiency while running the show for Team USA showcased the type of floor general skills that translate immediately to higher levels. If he can replicate even a portion of this production as a freshman at Louisville, what many currently view as a "top 3" in the 2026 NBA Draft could quickly expand to include a fourth elite prospect, and Brown should prove to be Louisville’s best prospect and player in years. His tournament performance was a coming-out party that announced him as one of the most skilled players in his entire class.
Savo Drezgic | 6'4", Point Guard | Serbia
After a challenging freshman season at Georgia, Savo Drezgic's upcoming move to Mega in the ABA League should provide the perfect platform to showcase his considerable talents. His U19 World Cup performance served as a powerful reminder of his NBA potential, ranking in the top 10 in both scoring (17.6 PPG) and assists (5.8 APG) while displaying the type of well-rounded impact that suggests significant upside. Drezgic's signature moment came against Germany, where he exploded for 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists with just one turnover—a stat line that encapsulated his ability to produce at a high level while maintaining excellent control of pace and decision-making. When given the freedom to play aggressively and confidently, Drezgic's NBA potential becomes much more evident, and his transition to a more suitable developmental environment should allow him to build on this impressive international showing.
AJ Dybantsa | 6'8", Wing | USA
Despite carrying the weight of being projected as a potential #1 overall pick in the 2026 draft, AJ Dybantsa handled the pressure admirably throughout the U19 World Cup. While his three-point shooting didn't reach the explosive levels many expected, Dybantsa proved his versatility in other areas, converting an impressive 76% of his attempts inside the arc while maintaining a positive assist-to-turnover ratio and contributing solid defensive numbers. His ability to impact winning in multiple ways was never more evident than in the quarterfinals against Canada, where he posted 22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals in a signature performance. Even if teammate Mikel Brown Jr. emerged as the most skilled player on the U19 USA roster and the player truthfully more deserving of Tournament MVP, Dybantsa's combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ keeps him firmly entrenched in the elite tier of 2026 prospects nonetheless.
Declan Duru | 6'7", Forward | Germany
One of the tournament's most intriguing under-the-radar discoveries, Declan Duru quietly established himself as a prospect worth serious attention with his efficient and impactful play. The soon-to-be Texas Longhorn forward showcased exactly the type of low-usage productivity that NBA teams covet, shooting a stellar 56% from the field and 42% from three, despite only 68% from the free-throw line, while contributing over six rebounds per game. Duru's ability to play within a team structure while maintaining high efficiency suggests he could develop into a valuable long-term role player at the next level, particularly if he proves to be a high-level defender. His combination of size, shooting, and basketball IQ makes him a name to monitor closely as he continues his development.
Marc Owen Fodzo-Dada | 6'3", Guard | France
Marc Owen Fodzo-Dada emerged as France's most consistent all-around performer during their U19 World Cup run, showcasing the defensive disruption and two-way energy that has made him a standout in youth basketball circles. At 6'3" with a reported 6'10" wingspan, Fodzo-Dada brings the type of physical tools and twitchy athleticism that translate well to higher levels of competition. His game draws comparisons to Deuce McBride, particularly as an off-ball disruptor who can create havoc with his activity and instincts. While his three-point shooting remains a work in progress, flashes like his standout performance against China demonstrated the upside that has scouts optimistic about his long-term projection. Having recently earned MVP honors in France's U21 Espoirs league, Fodzo-Dada appears poised for continued development as he transitions to higher levels of competition.
Alvaro Folgueiras | 6'9", Forward | Spain
The 2024-25 Horizon League Player of the Year at Robert Morris, Alvaro Folgueiras made the most of his opportunity to compete against elite international competition at the U20 EuroBasket. The Iowa transfer erupted for a dominant performance against Finland with 28 points, 17 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals while shooting an efficient 69% from the floor—a stat line that perfectly encapsulated his versatility and motor at their best. Though he'll be turning 21 next April, Folgueiras' combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ suggests he could carve out a role similar to Santi Aldama in the NBA. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from rebounding and playmaking to scoring at all three levels, makes him an intriguing long-term prospect who could benefit significantly from his upcoming season in Iowa's system under Ben McCollum. Having the chance to pair up with Bennett Stirtz likely only amplifies that intrigue.
Jacob Furphy | 6'4", Combo Guard | Australia
Jacob Furphy established himself as one of the most polished and productive guards in the entire U19 World Cup, delivering the type of consistent excellence that should translate well to his upcoming freshman season at UConn. While he projects more as a multi-year college contributor than a one-and-done prospect, Furphy's tournament performance made a compelling case for his long-term NBA potential, even if it means moving past some speed bumps along the way. Ranking fifth in scoring at 19.6 points per game, he maintained impressive efficiency across the board, including a near 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio that demonstrated his comfort running offense in the half court. Perhaps most encouraging was his perimeter shooting—40% from three on 8 attempts per game made him one of the tournament's most dangerous outside threats. Furphy's combination of skill, basketball IQ, and production suggests he could develop into a solid professional prospect with continued development in Storrs.
Martin Kalu | 6'7", Forward | Germany
One of the sleeper prospects to emerge from the U20 EuroBasket, Martin Kalu showcased the same high-level tools that have made him a standout at youth levels throughout his career. The Charleston commit has been consistently impressive in international competition, and his strong showing in Greece only reinforced his potential as a long-term prospect. What makes Kalu particularly intriguing is that despite his success at various youth levels, he played only spot minutes in Germany's professional Bundesliga, suggesting significant untapped upside in a more prominent college role. His combination of size, skill, and basketball feel could really flourish in a more prominent role at the college level, making him the type of prospect who could emerge as a serious NBA candidate with the right development and opportunity.
Tyler Kropp | 6'8", Combo Forward | Argentina
Tyler Kropp emerged as one of the most productive big men throughout the U19 World Cup, consistently delivering the type of double-double performances that caught scouts' attention. The Northwestern commit averaged a robust 20-point double-double across four games, showcasing a developed frame and the physicality needed to succeed around the rim. Kropp thrives on put-backs and interior touches, but his budding jumper suggests genuine upside as a three-level scorer who could develop into more than just a paint presence. While his athletic limitations may present some projection questions, his combination of size, skill, and motor makes him a potentially valuable find for the 2026 cycle. As a 3/4 tweener, Kropp offers both versatility and some concerns, but his productivity and continued development make him a prospect worth monitoring closely as he transitions to college basketball.
Omer Mayer | 6'4", Point Guard | Israel
Omer Mayer was undeniably the engine behind Israel's impressive U19 World Cup run, delivering clutch performances and consistent playmaking that helped push his team into the World Cup championship bracket. His Round of 16 performance against Cameroon, where he torched the opposition for 33 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds, highlighted his ability to take over games when needed. The incoming Purdue freshman brings professional experience from his time with Maccabi Tel-Aviv, which should help his transition to college basketball. At 6'4", Mayer possesses NBA-level shot-making ability and the court vision needed to run an offense effectively. His combination of size, skill, and experience competing against professional competition makes him a fascinating prospect to watch, particularly as he steps into what could be a prominent role for a Purdue team expected to contend at the highest levels of college basketball.
Lucas Morillo | 6'7", Wing/Guard | Dominican Republic
Lucas Morillo solidified his status as one of the true breakout prospects of the U19 World Cup, delivering consistently impressive performances that showcased his considerable upside as a wing prospect. The top-50 recruit in the 2026 class averaged 20.4 points per game—second-best in the entire tournament—while displaying the type of NBA-level size and skill combination that immediately catches evaluators' attention. His 6'7" frame combined with strong ball-handling abilities for his position and equally impressive passing chops creates a compelling foundation for continued development. Morillo excels at attacking the rim and has shown flashes of playmaking ability, but unlocking his full potential will require continued improvement as a three-point shooter and overall basketball decision-maker. His physical development and athletic progression will also be crucial factors in determining his ultimate ceiling as he continues to mature.
Dayan Nessah | 6'7", Forward | Switzerland
Dayan Nessah emerged as the clear focal point for Switzerland's impressive U19 World Cup run, showcasing the type of versatility and skill set that translates well to higher levels of basketball. At 6'7", he functioned as one of the few true point forwards in the tournament, combining the ball-handling, passing vision, and size needed to fill that demanding role effectively. His well-rounded impact was evident in his statistical profile—ranking in the top 10 in both scoring and rebounding while contributing significantly in assists as well. Perhaps most impressive was his shooting efficiency, converting 52% of his field goal attempts and a stellar 55% from three-point range, though his free-throw shooting and turnover rate (3.6 per game) represent areas for continued improvement. The George Mason commit brings the frame, athleticism, and all-around skill set that projects favorably to professional basketball, making him a legitimate NBA prospect worth following closely.
Koa Peat | 6'8", Forward | USA
Despite a disappointing quarterfinals performance that saw him battle foul trouble, Koa Peat's earlier contributions throughout the U19 World Cup were impressive enough to cement his status among the tournament's top prospects. He established himself as one of the most productive rebounders in the field while averaging 13.8 points per game—all without attempting a single three-pointer. This statistical profile paints a clear picture of his identity as a throwback, physical forward who punishes weaker or smaller defenders in the paint and around the rim. Peat's old-school approach and interior dominance represent a somewhat unique skill set in today's basketball landscape, but his effectiveness in these areas suggests he could carve out a valuable role at the next level if it translates smoothly to college. His long-term NBA upside will ultimately depend on how well his skill development complements his natural strength and physicality.
Roman Siulepa | 6'5", Forward | Australia
Roman Siulepa brought a unique blend of athleticism and power to Australia's frontcourt throughout the U19 World Cup, showcasing the type of physical tools that immediately caught evaluators' attention. His rugby background becomes evident in his style of play—he attacks downhill with remarkable force, bulldozing defenders in transition and finishing through contact around the rim with authority. Despite standing at a healthy 6'5", Siulepa's motor and physicality translated to strong rebounding numbers, averaging 8.8 boards per game as a testament to his effort and positioning. His combination of athletic ability, frame, and scoring touch around the basket creates an intriguing foundation for continued development. While he may need to expand his skill set at his size to reach his ceiling, Siulepa's physical tools and relentless motor make him a prospect with genuine upside worth monitoring closely. His decision to commit to Pitt could be one that pays big dividends by next summer.
Zak Smrekar | 6'7", Wing | Slovenia
Zak Smrekar emerged as the driving force behind Slovenia's impressive U19 World Cup run. The versatile 6'7" forward demonstrated a well-rounded offensive game that allowed him to function effectively both as an off-ball option and as a secondary creator when needed. While his three-point percentage didn't reach spectacular levels in this tournament, his overall feel for the game and ability to make plays for teammates at his size created significant long-term intrigue among evaluators. He posted 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in Slovenia's quarterfinal victory over Israel—a performance that exemplified the type of long-term upside he could have with a more reliable jump shot. Even with a shaky shot, though, his combination of size, skill, and court vision suggests he has the tools necessary to develop into a valuable multi-positional player at higher levels of competition.
Hannes Steinbach | 6'9", Forward | Germany
Hannes Steinbach delivered one of the most dominant and consistent performances of the entire U19 World Cup, establishing himself as a legitimate first-round prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft. The University of Washington commit posted staggering numbers throughout the tournament—17.8 points and 13.6 rebounds per game—while maintaining outstanding efficiency across the board. His shooting splits of 65% from the field, 35% from three, and 83% from the line demonstrate the type of well-rounded offensive game that translates beautifully to higher levels. Adding more than a block per game reinforced his two-way impact and rim protection ability. Steinbach's combination of size, motor, and skill set represents exactly the type of modern forward that NBA teams covet, and his tournament performance only solidified his standing as one of the premier international prospects in his class. Him together with Wesley Yates and Zoom Diallo will be must-watch basketball in Seattle with the Washington Huskies.
Tyran Stokes | 6'7", Point Forward | USA
Despite inconsistent playing time throughout the U19 World Cup, Tyran Stokes made the most of his opportunities and etched his name in tournament history with a remarkable performance. In his one extended opportunity, he became the first player ever to record a triple-double at the FIBA U19 World Cup, posting 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists while very nearly achieving a quadruple-double with 7 steals. As a 6'7", true point-forward with impressive defensive instincts and the versatility to impact winning in multiple ways. Stokes' combination of size, playmaking ability, and defensive disruption give him tremendous two-way upside, and his record-setting performance suggests he's shaping up to be a can't-miss prospect for the 2027 NBA Draft cycle.
Honorable Mentions
Franck Belibi | 6'4", Shooting Guard | Cameroon
Currently at Colorado Prep, Franck Belibi made an immediate splash with a 29-point opening performance against Australia. Playing up two years at just 17 years old, he showcased promising scoring upside and a developing frame that could blossom significantly with continued experience and development. Our very own Quinn Fishburne held an interview with Belibi and put together an in-depth deep dive here.
Fridrik “Leo” Curtis | 7’2", Big | Iceland
This Nebraska commit will bring legitimate NBA size and international experience to his college program, representing the type of steady contributor who could develop into more with the right opportunity and continued skill development in the college system. While he didn’t make a consistently sizable impact on the box scores in U20 EuroBasket, there were enough convincing flashes along the way—including a near double-double with three blocks against Slovenia—to remain interested.
Dash Daniels | 6'5", Point Guard | Australia
While Dash Daniels didn't have a breakout tournament offensively, his combination of size, age, and defensive potential keeps him firmly on the prospect radar. As a big guard who won't turn 18 until October, he's competing a bit above his age group and has shown flashes of elite defensive ability that could develop into a calling card not unlike his brother’s.
Roman Domon | 6'6", Guard | France
The Murray State commit may not be a particularly imposing athlete, but Roman Domon handles the ball well for his size and shows promising shooting upside that could translate well to the college level and potentially beyond with continued development.
Mantas Juzenas | 6'7", Forward | Lithuania
Mantas Juzenas offers good size and has established himself as a high-level shooter at the international level. The St. Mary's commit will need to expand other areas of his game to to be of real NBA value on the wing, particularly at his size, but his size and shooting foundation provides a safe starting point.
Felipe Minzer | 6'6", Wing | Argentina
Felipe Minzer offers intriguing offensive versatility as a dribble-pass-shoot wing prospect, posting an impressive 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio while shooting 47% from three through the U19 World Cup. While he needs to add strength and improve his finishing ability, his offensive feel at his size makes him worth tracking long-term.
Aleksa Ristic | 6'3", Guard | Serbia
The Indiana commit may be on the smaller side for NBA standards, but Aleksa Ristic has proven himself as a reliable and accomplished shooter throughout his international career, including this year’s U20 EuroBasket. His shooting ability represents his most NBA-translatable skill (and a valuable one at that), but continued development in other areas of his game will determine his long-term NBA potential.
Alexandros Samodurov | 6'5", Guard | Greece
Playing for Panathinaikos professionally, Alexandros Samodurov posted the best Box Plus-Minus in the entire U20 EuroBasket tournament, showcasing his ability to impact winning in ways that didn't necessarily always show up in this tournament’s box scores. His scoring certainly did show up in the box scores though, as he finished as the second-best point-per-game scorer in the tournament. His overall basketball IQ and efficiency inside the arc make him a prospect worth continuing to monitor.
Fernando de los Santos | 6'4", Guard | Dominican Republic
Fernando de los Santos emerged as one of the biggest pleasant surprises of the U19 World Cup, ranking as the tournament's third-leading scorer with 20 points per game while shooting efficiently from both the field (46%) and three-point range (39%). Though not a dynamic athlete, his consistent production and effort level make him a sleeper prospect to monitor.
Talis Soulhac | 6'2", Guard | France
Talis Soulhac demonstrated the ability to be an efficient scoring guard with good burst and promising shooting touch. His superior playmaking and decision-making compared to some of his contemporaries, combined with his ability to limit turnovers, suggest he could develop into a contributor even at his size. His path to the NBA is somewhat narrow in that way, but conceivable noentheless.