Dash Daniels, heralded as one of the shining prospects for the upcoming 2026 NBA Draft, has chosen to elevate his game in Australia by joining Melbourne United’s Next Stars program. This decision marks a significant step for the 16-year-old playmaker, who stands at 6 feet 6 inches tall. By committing to a multi-year contract in the National Basketball League (NBL), he not only positions himself in one of the toughest competitive environments globally but also keeps his draft eligibility for June 2026. With a birthday on December 18, he has a chance to make history as one of the youngest players drafted in the one-and-done era.
Daniels expressed his excitement about joining a league known for its fierce competition. “I am joining one of the toughest leagues in the world,” he stated, emphasizing that playing alongside seasoned professionals will accelerate his development. The Next Stars program has a proven track record of facilitating young athletes’ journeys to the NBA, and Daniels aims to follow in the footsteps of successful alumni.
Melbourne United’s Next Stars program has become a beacon for emerging talent, with previous participants including top lottery picks like Alex Sarr, Josh Giddey, LaMelo Ball, and Ousmane Dieng. As Daniels steps into this structure, he joins an elite group that is generating significant buzz around the 2026 draft class. Alongside him, Mexican wing Karim Lopez of the New Zealand Breakers also has lottery pick potential. This collaborative environment could serve as a springboard for Daniels, who aspires to replicate the success of his predecessors.
As the younger brother of Dyson Daniels, who was drafted eighth overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2022, Dash possesses an insightful advantage as he navigates his own basketball career. Dyson has quickly distinguished himself in the NBA, showcasing his prowess as a defender and establishing himself as a candidate for NBA Defensive Player of the Year. The success of Dyson serves as both inspiration and a benchmark for Dash, as the two siblings share a passion for the game and a commitment to excel.
Dash Daniels brings an impressive defensive skill set to the court, boasting a remarkable wingspan and exceptional instincts. His ability to read the offense, anticipate plays, and create turnovers makes him a formidable opponent. He demonstrated this talent during the FIBA U17 World Cup in Istanbul, where he recorded a tournament-leading 3.6 steals per game, highlighting his impact on defense.
While both brothers are adept defenders, they exhibit different styles of play. Dash acknowledges that although they share similarities—such as a love for aggressive play, defensive tenacity, and skill in transition—he also emphasizes his distinct attributes. “I play a little bit more with the ball in my hands,” he explained, noting his inclination to create for teammates and leverage on-ball screens. This distinction could serve him well as he adapts to the physicality of the NBL and hones his game against older, more experienced opponents.
The Daniels family’s basketball lineage speaks volumes about the potential embedded in Dash’s DNA. Their father, Ricky Daniels, carved out a basketball career that included playing professionally in Australia after a college tenure at North Carolina State. This rich backdrop has provided both Dash and Dyson with a deep understanding of the game, competitiveness, and the importance of hard work and resilience. Growing up in Bendigo, Victoria, Dash has already absorbed invaluable lessons that will guide him as he embarks on this new chapter in his life.
In a landscape crowded with talent, Dash Daniels stands on the precipice of greatness. With his decision to join the NBL, he looks set to not only elevate his skills but also to solidify his status as a player to watch leading up to the 2026 draft. As he forges his own path, the basketball world eagerly anticipates his ascent and the impact he will undoubtedly make on the sport.