Where It All Started: Boondall’s Own Giant

Before NBA lights and international headlines, Rocco Zikarsky was simply the tall teen training on the hardwood at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Born in 2006 on the Sunshine Coast, Zikarsky’s rise began on Brisbane’s northside, where he wore the blue and white of the Northside Wizards. Even as a junior, his shot-blocking and size drew crowds. With an Olympic swimmer for a father and a decorated ironwoman for a mum, elite sport ran in his blood—but basketball was where he made his name.

He played representative basketball for Queensland South and trained with the NBA Global Academy in Canberra before returning to Boondall to continue with the Wizards. There, his presence in the paint became a familiar (and feared) sight on local courts. Watch Rocco’s junior Wizards highlights on TikTok.

From NBL Prospect to NBA Potential

In 2023, the Brisbane Bullets signed Rocco as part of the NBL’s Next Stars program. At just 17, he made his professional debut with six points and four blocks in only 10 minutes. By his second season, he’d earned a starting role and delivered a standout performance in November 2024 with 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks against Perth.

Over two seasons, he played 45 games for Brisbane, averaging 4.6 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field. More importantly, he showed flashes of elite rim protection and mobility that caught the attention of NBA scouts.

Scouting reports consistently noted his size (7′3″ barefoot, 7′4″ with shoes), 257 lb frame, and a 9′7″ standing reach—traits that made him one of the tallest and longest prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Draft Night: A New Chapter

Rocco was officially selected by the Chicago Bulls with the 45th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, but his rights were quickly traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a pre-arranged deal. He is expected to sign a two-way contract, splitting his time between the Timberwolves and their G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves.

Though still raw, analysts agree that his upside is undeniable. With elite defensive tools and the discipline to keep developing, he may soon earn minutes in one of the world’s toughest leagues.

Local Legacy: A Star Born in Boondall

In Boondall and Aspley, Rocco is more than a draft pick—he’s a hometown hero. His journey from local courts to global stages is inspiring a new generation of young players at the Northside Wizards and beyond. The same courts where he first learned to pivot and block are now filled with kids hoping to follow in his giant footsteps.

His story reminds us all that big dreams can grow from small communities—and that even the tallest journeys can start right here at home.

Published 27-06-2025

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Norton’s milestone night interrupted by power outage

In his 350th NBL game, captain Mitch Norton demonstrated his continued importance in his 13th professional season. Starting his career as the youngest-ever Townsville Crocodiles captain at age 18, Norton’s trademark hustle plays and efficiency set high standards for his teammates. His milestone evening begins perfectly as he scores the game’s opening basket, finishing with 12 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

With 3:24 remaining and trailing 104-89, the game experienced an unexpected 30-minute delay due to a power failure. Following the interruption, the Bullets showed a brief fightback but ultimately could not bridge the gap, with United maintaining their advantage to secure the 17-point victory.

Offensive efficiency, defensive challenges

Keandre Cook erupted for a game-high 23 points, leading the Bullets’ scorers. Cook’s efficiency at the free-throw line was on full display, as he converted all 11 of his attempts. This aggressive, attack-minded approach from the Bullets was reflected in their impressive 29-for-33 performance from the charity stripe as a team.

Casey Prather added 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Josh Bannan chipped in 17 points and 6 boards. Tyrell Harrison also made his mark, finishing with 13 points and 6 rebounds.

Even with coach Justin Schueller placing a heavy emphasis on defensive intensity, the Bullets were unable to stop Melbourne United, who poured in 85 points through the first three quarters. The Bullets got outmuscled and out-hustled: United outscored Brisbane 44-32 in the paint, 20-13 in second-chance opportunities, and 13-4 advantage in transition.

Looking forward

The loss drops Brisbane to a 3-5 record after playing a league-low eight games. They now have an extended break before facing the Tasmania JackJumpers at MyState Bank Arena on Friday, 15 November, followed by a home clash against the Perth Wildcats on Sunday, 17 November.

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The loss also carries additional concern with experienced forward Jarred Bairstow suffering what appeared to be a serious lower leg injury, adding another challenge for the team to overcome as they look to improve their position in NBL25.

Published 08-November-2024

Match preview published on 03-November-2024.

Bullets vs United: Bullets Look to Upset Melbourne in Norton’s Landmark Game

The Brisbane Bullets (3-4) are set to celebrate captain Mitch Norton’s 350th NBL game when they host second-ranked Melbourne United (7-3) this Thursday, 7 November. Bullets vs United tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

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Strong form despite early struggles

Fresh off an impressive 92-88 comeback victory against the Cairns Taipans, the Bullets showcased their trademark late-game resilience—a consistent factor throughout the early season. Norton’s defensive excellence was evident in Cairns, where he spent most of his 33 minutes containing Taipans’ star Rob Edwards.

“We’re very lucky to have him and there is not a person in our organisation that doesn’t feel that way,” says coach Justin Schueller, discussing Norton’s influence. “We’re going to make sure we celebrate that [his 350th game] the right way.”

Evolving guard rotation; patient youth development

The Bullets’ guard rotation has transformed from its initial NBL25 strategy. What began with James Batemon starting and Norton coming off the bench has evolved into an effective partnership, with Norton starting and Batemon providing scoring punch as sixth man.

Batemon’s offensive firepower was on full display in Cairns, leading all scorers with 21 points, while centre Tyrell Harrison dominated the boards with 14 points and 20(!) rebounds.

While veterans lead the charge, the Bullets maintain a measured approach to youth development. NBA prospect Rocco Zikarsky’s playing time—averaging under 10 minutes per game with just 5 minutes in Cairns—has been a subject of fan discussion online. Veteran teammate Casey Prather emphasises patience in the 18-year-old’s journey.

“There’s no ceiling, the only thing is going to be him and how hard he can take it on, and how patient he is,” Prather tells Sydney Morning Herald. “NBA teams are salivating over him right now.”

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Bullets vs United

Melbourne United arrives as one of the NBL’s hottest teams, riding a three-game winning streak and showcasing their championship credentials. The Bullets’ recent form, winning three of their last four games, suggests they’re ready for the challenge against the league’s second-ranked outfit.

With both teams hitting their stride, Thursday’s clash promises high-quality basketball between two in-form sides.

The post Bullets vs United: Brisbane’s Woes Continue Against Melbourne appeared first on Aspley News.

This success goes beyond the trophy; it’s a significant step in building a winning culture for the team and setting the tone for the season ahead.

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Blitz success fuels optimism

Head coach Justin Schueller emphasises the importance of this pre-season performance, stating, “We’re at a stage of our program where we need to try and win everything we can.”

The Bullets’ clean sweep during the Blitz, which included victories over Melbourne United, South East Melbourne Phoenix, and the Cairns Taipans, highlights the team’s potential and depth as they head into the regular season.

If Brisbane can carry this form into the regular season, an improved record seems imminent and they could make a deep postseason push.

An inconsistent 2023/24

The 2023/24 season saw inconsistency plague the Bullets, finishing seventh with 13 wins and 15 losses. Missing out on the play-in by the slimmest of margins due to percentage, Brisbane showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t string together consistent performances.

However, they competed fiercely against top teams and appeared like a top-six contender for much of the season.

Individual standouts and team depth

Tyrell Harrison emerged as the standout of the Blitz, earning the Ray Borner Medal with averages of 17.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. His efficient shooting—64.3% from the floor and 84.2% from the free-throw line—underscored his improved offensive game.

Schueller’s praise for Harrison shows the high expectations surrounding the centre this season. “I don’t think Tyrell is a secret anymore,” Schueller remarks, signalling that Harrison is ready to become a key player in the team’s strategy.

“I think he’s showing what we’ve known inside the walls for a while, that he’s ready to take a leap,” Schueller adds. This timely progression coincides perfectly with the Bullets’ roster shake-up, as former NBA champion Aron Baynes bid farewell to the team during the offseason.

The Bullets’ strength extends beyond Harrison. Promising performances from NBL Next Star Rocco Zikarsky and new arrivals Deng Adel, Keandre Cook, and James Batemon III add depth to the roster.

Brisbane fans anticipate Josh Bannan and Sam McDaniel to build upon their stellar 2023/24 performances; and they expect continued solid contributions from Tohi Smith-Milner and Jarred Bairstow. Meanwhile, veteran leaders Mitch Norton, Casey Prather, and Isaac White shoulder the responsibility of steering the team through the season.

All eyes on Rocco Zikarsky

At just 18 years old, Rocco Zikarsky represents the future of Australian basketball. Standing at 7-foot-3, Zikarsky is already projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His time training alongside former Bullet and Boomer Aron Baynes has provided invaluable mentorship, accelerating his development.

Zikarsky’s aspirations reach far beyond the NBL, with his eyes on representing Australia in the 2028 and 2032 Olympics. “Especially with 2032 being a home Olympics,” Zikarsky notes, emphasising his desire to be a core player for the Boomers on home soil.

Back to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The Brisbane Bullets will make a highly anticipated return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre for their home opener on 5 October, facing off against the Sydney Kings. This marks their first game at the venue in 16 years, reclaiming what was once their fortress.

The Bullets’ offseason acquisitions, alongside Harrison’s breakout and the continued development of Zikarsky, position the Bullets as a formidable contender in the NBL25 season.

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With their success in the Blitz and the return to their formidable home ground, all eyes will be on the Bullets. Will this be the season they finally break their playoff drought?

Published 17-September-2024

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