Stars who shone brightest at NBL Blitz

The 2026 CODE Sports NBL Blitz is in the books and with some teams still having pre-season games left, the attention has largely turned towards Saturday, September 19 when the Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season tips-off.

While some big names missed out on hitting the floor in Bendigo due to injuries, fans were treated to some high-level action and a chance to get a first glimpse of some potential breakout stars.

Let's take a look at five players who turned heads across the week.

1 – Luke Travers (Melbourne)

The Ray Borner Medallist made his return to the NBL in style and showcased his improvement across the board, finishing up averaging 18 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.5 blocks.

Travers' history in the NBL would show that he is able to fill the stat sheet every single night, getting in the passing lanes, ripping down rebounds and getting out in transition.

Still just 25-years-old, the former Cleveland Cavalier wing made a shock return to the NBL in the off-season and looks primed to do all he can to get another opportunity in the NBA.

2 - Arnus Velicka (Brisbane)

There has been a combination of excitement and intrigue around the Brisbane Bullets playmaker since he signed with the team, but after fans got to see their new floor general hit the court, the hype is real.

The reigning MVP from the Lithuanian league has wasted no time in building chemistry with his teammates, finding a way to balance the ability to get them involved and score the ball at a high rate.

Already touted as one of the best passers in the league, Velicka's Blitz performances have experts asking the question on whether the NBL record for assists per game is under threat?

3 – Jayden Stone (Sydney)

The Sydney Kings looked a little different in Bendigo than they did last year when they were cutting down the nets as champions, with 25-year-old Jayden Stone stepping into more responsibility as the team awaits Kendric Davis' arrival.

Stone arrives in Sydney after an impressive college career and was another example of returning locals who don't need much time to make an impact. The athletic guard averaged 13.5 points and six rebounds across the Kings' two games, capping it off with an impressive highlight reel above the rim.

When you think about perfect landing spots for young guards to thrive in their specific environment, getting to learn from Davis and Matthew Dellavedova each day probably makes this a dream situation for Stone.

4 – Milton Doyle (Illawarra)

At one point in the off-season it didn't look as if NBL champion Milton Doyle would be returning to the league, until the Hawks made a move and locked him away.

It may be early, but the signs are incredibly promising that the veteran playmaker will complement his backcourt partner Tyler Harvey in the best possible way.

In their first Blitz game, Doyle was up to his old tricks, dropping 23 points, which included a step-back three on the buzzer to sink the Adelaide 36ers.

Doyle is no stranger to clutch moments and when you consider Harvey's resume in the same position, opposition teams will be hoping the Hawks don't have the last shot in a close game.

5 - Zylan Cheatham (Adelaide)

For those out there who react to teams and players on the back of analytics, you will remember there was a stark difference in Adelaide 36ers results last year when Zylan Cheatham was aggressive, versus passive on offense.

A fan favourite for his highlights, Cheatham seemed to be locked into a more positive mindset on the offensive end, putting up 16 points and ripping down 16 rebounds in their first game against the Hawks.

The high-flying forward also managed to make some big defensive plays, as he solidifies himself as the barometer on this team with his energy and leadership.