When Luke Paul officially signed with the NBL as the youngest Next Star in history, it marked a significant shift in the program’s trajectory. Previously dominated by international prospects, the signing underscored a new focus on nurturing home-grown talent. Standing at an impressive 7-foot-6, Jongkuch Mach may be the next Australian to follow this path toward the NBA.
Mach, an 18-year-old from Perth with South Sudanese heritage, towers over many, including the French sensation Victor Wembanyama. Currently playing for Canberra’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in the NBL1 East Men’s Conference, Mach has already caught the attention of NBA Draft analysts worldwide, who consider him one of the most intriguing prospects globally.
The decision facing Mach is monumental, especially in light of Paul’s signing, which highlights the lucrative pathways and earning opportunities now available to top-tier Australian prospects.
From Global Pathway to Australian Pipeline
The Next Stars program has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially conceived as an alternative for high-profile American juniors like LaMelo Ball and R.J. Hampton, it soon expanded into Europe with players such as Alex Sarr and Bobi Klintman. Now, the focus is shifting back home, with Australian talent increasingly developing domestically and finding clearer routes to the NBA.
Before the NBL26 season, only a few Australians had emerged from the program, most notably Josh Giddey, who was the sixth pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. This season, Dash Daniels has joined the ranks, quickly establishing himself as a formidable defender with considerable potential. Many expect him to be drafted early in the 2026 or 2027 NBA Draft, depending on his development trajectory.
With Paul now in the mix, attention is turning to the broader picture, with expectations that his signing could set a trend for the next wave of local talent, led by the likes of Mach.
A Unique Situation: The Making of Jongkuch Mach
Foxsports.com.au recently spoke with Mach’s agent, Solomon Dech of Promondo Sports, about Mach’s development, his expanding options, and the role of both the Next Stars program and college basketball in his future.
“JK is a unique situation,” Dech said. “Being 7’6” and just 18, it’s challenging – but he’s put on 20 kilos in the last 12 months. It’s a blessing and a curse at the same time, because being that tall comes with a lot of physical challenges. But I think what the Centre of Excellence has done is an excellent job stripping him back and rebuilding him properly.”
This careful, patient approach has become a hallmark of Mach’s rise, focusing on building durability, movement, and long-term sustainability rather than rushing potential.
College Money vs. NBA Dreams: A Landscape in Flux
The rapid growth of the US college system, particularly through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, has made the financial incentives for young athletes impossible to ignore. Some players now earn figures approaching minimum NBA contracts in a single college season, often exceeding $US1 million.
However, Dech emphasizes that advising young players, including Mach, isn’t solely about money.
“Each athlete has a unique journey,” he said. “It’s important to sit down with the family, identify the ultimate goal, and then figure out the best developmental pathway to get there. Some guys work better in certain systems. Others are better suited to college or going overseas. It’s case by case – mentally and physically – and money is a by-product of the work they put in.”
This reality presents young athletes with a defining question earlier than ever: Is short-term financial security worth more than long-term development and NBA aspirations? For Mach, Dech says every option remains open.
“We’ve had initial conversations, but nothing is set in stone,” he said. “We’re still talking about staying in Australia, potentially Next Stars – it really comes down to how fast he develops. He does have a number of college offers, so it’s about finding the best fit where he can develop the most.”
Interest is Building — and It’s Coming Fast
The interest surrounding Mach is already substantial.
“We’ve spoken with LSU – he was meant to visit during HoopsFest but had games on – and there’s also interest from Colorado, Washington State, Santa Clara, South Carolina, and UNC Charlotte, just to name a few,” Dech said.
In the short term, Mach will continue his development at the Centre of Excellence, where a methodical, long-term approach has guided both his physical growth and on-court progression. He has one semester remaining in the program, after which deeper conversations about his future will begin in earnest.
“Now that he’s graduated school-wise, he has more time to dedicate to his basketball and his body,” Dech said. “I think the next six to seven months will really determine where we go.”
These discussions are already broad in scope.
“We’ve talked about where he would fit in the NBL, which coach suits him, which college or conference would be best if he goes to the States,” Dech said. “It’s ongoing, but we’ve explored both sides.”
Why the Next Stars Program Still Matters
From an agent’s perspective, Dech is full of praise for the Next Stars program and its proven track record. To date, 22 players have come through the program, with 14 drafted into the NBA and two more earning contracts post-draft. Only six have not reached the NBA, instead carving out professional careers across Europe, Asia, and other top international leagues.
“It’s great to have a domestic program that keeps guys local while still preparing them for the next level,” Dech said. “I think Liam Santamaria and the NBL have done a tremendous job. The success speaks for itself.”
With college eligibility rules changing, allowing players to attend college even after professional stints, the pathway is no longer linear. Doors once closed now remain open, creating constant dialogue between agents and players about immediate financial opportunities versus long-term development.
The Luke Paul Effect: Belief Breeds Belief
Mach shares a strong relationship with Paul, with both growing up in Western Australia and developing together at the Centre of Excellence. Paul’s decision to sign as a Next Star in his home state could create a powerful ripple effect.
“I think it sets the trend for guys his age,” Dech said. “If he can do it, others start thinking, ‘Why not me?’ In the past, a lot of the guys were overseas players – from Europe or the US – and there wasn’t that relatability factor. Now there is.”
For Mach, everything will hinge on continued development over the coming months. Both college and the Next Stars program offer elite environments, strong financial outcomes, and professional structures – meaning there is no wrong choice, only the right timing.
There is no decision yet, but the focus remains clear: improve, refine, and let the pathway reveal itself.
“What he’s good at right now is shot blocking,” Dech said. “He doesn’t shy away from contact, and he likes to work – which I really like, because a lot of bigs don’t.”
Those traits, combined with patience and opportunity, place Mach firmly on track toward his goals.
