NCAA teams hot for teen Aussie sensation Roman Siulepa as a big decision looms
He’s one of Australia’s best young talents, but Roman Siulepa is the latest name to be linked with the USA, with colleges and their big money deals sparking serious interest in the teenager.
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One of Australia’s most gifted young basketballers – Queensland sensation Roman Siulepa - is being courted by US college sides and a booming NCAA competition with significant earning potential for players.
It’s emerged Siulepa – an athletic 6’7, 99kg forward is in the sights of the Pittsburgh Panthers.
According to reports out of the US, the Panthers are the leading candidate for the Brisbane-born talent.
It’s alleged former Pittsburgh player Lamar Patterson – who is playing NBL1 with the South West Metro Pirates alongside Siulepa – is playing a key role in luring the youngster to the US.
But Code Sports understands the 18-year-old star hasn’t signed a deal with the Panthers or any other NCAA team at this point.
Siulepa – who won MVP at the Australian under-20 National Championships last year – is currently rehabbing and recovering from a foot injury.
He looked set for a long NBL career after signing with the Tasmania JackJumpers last June as a Next Star, but he mutually agreed to part ways with the club to return to Brisbane and play rugby union.
It’s understood Siulepa is keen to pursue a professional basketball career and is currently weighing up his options as US colleges circle.
He has the potential to earn big dollars in the American college system.
In June 2021, the NCAA adopted an interim policy allowing student-athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), a significant shift from the previous prohibition against such compensation.
It’s understood Perth Wildcats guard Henshall could command upwards of $US400,000 to play in the US College system if he chose to play there.
Siulepa – who is explosive on the offensive end and highly entertaining to watch – also has enormous appeal to earn big dollars in the US college system.
He could opt to take the American route as a pathway to the 2026 NBA draft.
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Originally published as NCAA teams hot for teen Aussie sensation Roman Siulepa as a big decision looms
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