Rocco Zikarsky follows in Aussie giant's footsteps

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Australian centre Rocco Zikarsky was the tallest player in the 2025 Draft and now he's the third tallest player in the NBA.

The 220cm Zikarsky, 18, was selected with the 45th pick on Friday, June 27, 2025 by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He follows in the footsteps of another 7-footer Luc Longley, the first Australian men's player drafted with the 7th overall pick, by Minnesota in 1991.

ESPN's Jonathan Givony reports: "Rocco Zikarsky will spend the next two seasons on a two-way contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves, a source told ESPN. Will give the Australian plenty of time to develop alongside Rudy Gobert and Joan Beringer."

Zikarsky played 45 games in two seasons with the Brisbane Bullets, just 18 in NBL25 because of injury, where he averaged 4.6 points in just under 12 minutes and 3.44 rebounds.

Zikarsky logged a season-high 34.6 minutes against the Perth Wildcats on November 29, 2024 putting up a solid 13 points, eight rebounds and three block performance. The last time he suited up for the Bullets was against the South East Melbourne Phoenix on January 11, 2025, playing 12.5 minutes for seven points, two boards and a block.

NBA Draft Room Scouting Report

"He does a good job of body-ing up and holding his own in the paint and has good shot blocking instincts. He shows good recognition and can come off his man and block shots on the weak side. His immense height and long arms allow him to block and alter shots without needing to get off the ground.

"His biggest challenge at the NBA level will be guarding in space and keeping up with the pace of play. He’s got decent mobility but isn’t exactly a nimble or quick athlete."