A Dash of class: Daniels shines in first appearance

Dash Daniels’ prospects are looking bright for the NBL26 campaign, with the 17-year-old turning heads in his first NBL1 appearance this season.

Despite only playing 22 minutes on Saturday night with the Sandringham Sabres, the Melbourne United Next Star had a big impact, with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, shooting at 66 per cent from three (4-6). 

 

 

 

 

 

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Daniels, the brother of Atlanta Hawks star Dyson, is one of the youngest players to ever sign in the NBL and has a two-year contract at United.

The 195-centimetre guard has represented Australia at junior level and is currently listed as the ninth-ranked player in ESPN’s early 2026 NBA  Draft rankings. 

“It's a great pathway. It's another one of those leagues that is very talented, it's got some great players in it. It can help you get to the next level,” Daniels said upon signing in the NBL1. 

“That's what I'm trying to do right now, just go on to NBL1 and try and find my groove with the team and do as best I can, and then go into the NBL season confident.”