Toohey: "Next Stars not just a basketball program"

Sydney Kings youngster Alex Toohey has praised the Next Stars program, explaining how it has helped his development both on and off the court.

Toohey’s rise in his second year as a Next Star has landed him on NBA mock drafts, as interest in the 20-year-old continues to grow. Speaking to Sports Illustrated's Draft Digest, Toohey broke down several elements of the Next Stars program and how it has assisted his progression.

“Just learning how to be a pro, finding ways to compete at a high level. I think that’s a big part of the on-the-court game and the Next Stars does a good job of that,” Toohey said.

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“The resources they have for you to be a good person and the things you have at your disposal. You can reach out to people, and media teams are all there to back you up, and there’s just a bunch of resources. Not just on the court but off the court as well.

“Overall it’s not just the basketball program it’s a people program to try to make people better people.”

Toohey has been a vital part of the Kings’ starting five this season, averaging 10.7 points and 4.0 rebounds per game.

You can read his full interview with Sports Illustrated here.