Next Star Noa Touches Down in Perth

Met at the airport by head coach John Rillie and general manager of basketball operations Danny Mills, the 19-year-old was all smiles as he stepped off the plane following a long journey from France.

“I'm feeling good. I'm very happy to be here after all the months I've been waiting,” Kouakou-Heugue said. “It's a long way, very far from France, but I’m excited to start the season.”

The Wildcats’ newest recruit has been on the radar of basketball fans and NBA scouts alike thanks to a string of eye-catching performances with France’s national junior teams, showcasing an elite mix of athleticism and upside.

Kouakou-Heugue shared that he’d already been in contact with Wildcats assistant coach Keegan Crawford, who helped give him an understanding of what to expect in the NBL.

“We talked about how tough this league is and how it’s going to help me develop toward the NBA,” he said.

Kouakou-Heugue also referenced fellow Frenchman Alexandre Sarr, who starred for the Wildcats in NBL24 before being selected second overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, as a source of inspiration.

“Alex is an example. He got drafted second and did a really good season. He proved that he had what it takes to go into the NBA. I’m really proud of him.”

While he admits there might not be a lot of spare time off the court, the French teenager is focused on one thing.

“I’ll be spending my time in the gym. That’s it.”

And before signing off, Kouakou-Heugue gave Wildcats fans a helping hand by setting the record straight on how to pronounce his name: Noa Kouakou-Heugue (kwa-koo herg).

He’s officially landed and he’s ready to go to work.