Didi Louzada enjoys huge 28-point game in NBL, compares well with probable future first round NBA draft picks in LaMelo Ball and RJ Hampton

While Zion Williamson continues to rehab from meniscus surgery and Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker take their lumps in learning on basketball’s biggest stage, Didi Louzada was quietly developing his hooping talent halfway around the world in the NBL...until today.

The 20-year-old rookie shined in the Sydney Kings eighth win in nine tries on the season by posting an eye-catching line of 28 points, seven threes, six rebounds, two assists and two steals in just 24 minutes of action against the Perth Wildcats. Didi dropped a 29-point performance in his second ever game in Australia, but that came during exhibition play.

Apparently, Didi was the youngest member of the Kings to top the 20-point plateau since Matt Nielsen in 1997.

According to Kings’ head coach Will Weaver, “The offensive end is gravy. The defensive end is so special. He would’ve guarded every guard they had at some stage and it’s a pretty special effort.” While, it’s great to hear Louzada has been a bull defensively, Didi’s three-point stroke did look particularly sharp as he nailed seven of 11 shot attempts from deep.

Through seven NBL games, Louzada’s per 36 minute averages include 19.5 points, 3.4 threes, 6.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.5 turnovers and 1.5 steals per 36 minutes. He is only shooting 39.1% from the field, but Didi has posted a very solid 38.1 three-point percentage.

For comparison sake, Didi’s per 36 minute statistics more than hold their own alongside a pair of likely first round picks in the upcoming 2020 NBA Draft.

• LaMelo Ball: 17.4 points, 1.9 threes, 7.7 rebounds, 6.9 assists, 2.8 turnovers and 2.3 steals, with a 35.6 FG% and 24.6 3PT%
• RJ Hampton: 16.3 points, 2.1 threes, 7.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.7 turnovers and 2.5 steals, with a 48.4 FG% and 38.5 3PT%

Keep doing your thing, Didi. We can’t wait to see you in person.