Just three years ago, Jongkuch Mach began playing basketball. Today, at just 17 years old and standing 2.29 metres tall, he has already established himself as a dominant figure in Australia’s NBL1 East. Born in Perth, this young talent is attracting the attention of the international basketball world.
Various college programs in the United States have already shown a strong interest in his projection, and he is also considered one of the leading candidates for the prestigious Australian NBL Next Stars program, designed to accelerate the transition of top young players into professional basketball. His combination of size and agility make him a unique prospect, also highlighting his tactical intelligence and reaction ability on the court.
In 2023, he joined the Perth Wildcats academy, one of the most important franchises in the country. He is currently part of Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence and competes in the NBL1 East as a member of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) team, based in Canberra.
Draft analyst Nick Kalinowski describes him as “the most fascinating prospect in the world.” Mach will turn 18 in October, so he would be eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft. His physical profile has led to comparisons with Victor Wembanyama, although unlike the Frenchman, he is not characterized by a consolidated outside shot. He has also been linked by his origins to the legendary Manute Bol and the recent Phoenix Suns draftee Khaman Maluach, who was selected 10th overall in the last draft.
South Sudanese roots
Mach’s parents emigrated to Australia from South Sudan as a result of the civil war. His family settled in a country that in the last two decades has welcomed numerous refugees from that area
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