Next Star Bobi Klintman said he was “blown away” by a presentation from Cairns Taipans coach Adam Forde, which ultimately led to his decision to choose the NBL over the more “traditional” college route.

More and more players are choosing to go straight from high school into professional leagues around the world, with the chance to play against experienced players and bigger-bodied opposition the perfect preparation for their dream journey to the NBA. 

Highly-touted draft prospect Klintman opened up to Code Sports about why he chose the NBL.  

“Fordey had the presentation about the style of play, everything he knew about me, what he wanted me to do and the opportunities he had out here and I was blown away,” he said. 

“I had a great opportunity to get to the NBL and show what I can do, go against pros every day and I felt like I was ready for that. My mum and my agent all heard it and it just felt right. At the end of the day, you have to do what you feel is best for you and I felt like it would help me more than the college route.”

More than 45 NBA scouts are set to be on the Gold Coast this week for the Hungry Jack’s NBL Blitz, with Klintman sure to be firmly on the radar of many clubs. 

He’s been listed as early as pick nine in several experts’ early draft projections, with fellow Next Stars Trentyn Flowers, Alexandre Sarr and AJ Johnson also high up the list. 

Klintman will have another chance to impress when the Taipans head overseas for clashes against NBA clubs Washington and Toronto in the coming weeks. 

The 20-year-old says he’ll do everything in his power to “get to the next level” during his time in Australia. 

Fans can watch all eight NBL Next Stars in action during the Blitz, starting Saturday, September 16.

Watch every game live & free via Kayo Freebies. 

Read the full story here >> NBA draft prospect Bobi Klintman on Wake Forest coach Steve Forbes, NBL Next Stars program, Cairns Taipans