FIBA U17 World Cup: five prospects to watch
A new generation of future stars takes center stage at the 2025 FIBA U17 World Cup. From Europe to the United States, some of the world’s most promising young basketball talents are ready to make their mark
Elite young talent in the midst of their physical development, ready to catch the attention of scouts from around the world and emerge as household names in the years to come – the FIBA U17 World Cup once again serves as the perfect launching pad for basketball’s next wave of stars.
Nikola Kusturica – Serbia
The 2025 FIBA U16 EuroBasket MVP, the Serbian standout born in 2009 arrives after winning the EuroLeague NextGen title with Barcelona. He fits the modern NBA mold of a long, athletic wing – exactly the type of player every team is searching for.
His game goes far beyond physical tools. Elite defensive instincts, advanced court vision, and outstanding ball-handling already make him a dominant player. The next step in his development is expected to be a move to the EuroLeague.
Beckham Black – USA
The younger brother of Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black, Beckham Black is an explosive combo guard with offensive upside that exceeds expectations. He has already drawn interest from major college programs including Cincinnati, Auburn, and Kentucky.
A complete, athletic point guard, his aggressive style and overall impact closely resemble Tyrese Maxey.
Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje – USA
One of the tournament’s most dominant prospects. Born in 2009, he already possesses an NBA-ready frame and impacts the game on both ends of the floor. At 2.11 m, he offers rim protection, a reliable face-up jumper, and an effective post game, making him a versatile weapon in any lineup. The EuroLeague NextGen MVP, Kusturica’s former teammate, and future Duke Blue Devil is already viewed as a potential headliner for the 2028 NBA Draft.
Nathan Soliman – France
France’s projected go-to scorer enters the tournament after developing through Paris’ youth system. Next season will mark his true introduction to the senior level with JL Bourg, which competes in both the French league and the EuroCup.
His already polished offensive arsenal is impressive, but what stands out even more is his ability to create for teammates. His natural feel for the game could earn him a spot on France’s senior national team by the 2028 FIBA World Cup, before eventually pursuing his NBA dream.
Isaiah Hamilton – Canada
Arguably the best athlete in the tournament. Hamilton combines explosiveness, body control, and elite finishing ability in transition. Standing at 1.98 m, he dominates with his athleticism and ability to attack the rim, drawing interest from programs such as Florida State, Arizona State, and Villanova.
The 2025 FIBA U17 World Cup once again features the familiar favorite in Team USA, but it is also loaded with elite young prospects eager to turn this tournament into the showcase that launches their basketball futures.