9th July 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
With the VC Youth League Men finals just around the corner, the race for the 2026 MVP is heating up. We take a look at some of the standout performers who have put together impressive campaigns and helped shape an exciting season so far.
The future of Victorian basketball has been on full display throughout the VC Youth League Men season, with emerging talent continuing to make its mark each week.
As players continue to develop their game while helping their clubs push towards finals, a number of athletes have produced consistently outstanding campaigns. With representatives from nine different clubs featuring among the competition's standout performers, the depth of talent across the league has been a defining feature of the season.
Knox's Daniel Mazur has run an outstanding campaign, averaging 16.5 points and an impressive 13.5 rebounds per game. His consistency at both ends of the floor has made him a key contributor throughout the season.
Dandenong has also featured prominently, with both Mojwok Mojwok and Austin Kirikiri putting together excellent seasons. Mojwok has been a dominant presence inside, averaging a double-double with 15.5 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, while Kirikiri has averaged 19.1 points and 5.1 assists, showcasing his ability to both score and create opportunities for teammates.
Melbourne Tigers' Sam Haslett has continued to establish himself as one of the competition's exciting emerging talents in his first full VC Youth League Men season. A country Victoria product who has also gained valuable experience at NBL1 South level, Haslett is averaging 16.4 points per game and continues to showcase the consistency and strong work that have made him an important contributor for the Tigers.
Frankston's Lachlan Kanngiesser has also put together a strong season, averaging 16.8 points and 4.4 rebounds per game to provide a reliable scoring presence for his side.
Elsewhere, Geelong United's Bailey Bruce, Kilsyth's Wyatt Stewart, Waverley's Lebron Hodge, Pakenham's Mitchell Zeunert and Casey's Ari Moulieris have all produced impressive campaigns, highlighting the depth and quality that continues to define the VC Youth League Men competition.
Basketball Victoria Big V League Manager Andrew West said the competition continued to showcase the exciting future of Victorian basketball.
"The VC Youth League continues to provide a fantastic platform for young athletes to develop their game, compete at a high level and prepare for the next stage of their basketball journey," West said.
"It's been exciting to see so many players step up this season and make meaningful contributions to their teams. The quality of performances across the competition has been outstanding, and with finals approaching, I'm looking forward to seeing how these players continue to rise to the occasion when it matters most."
With the regular season entering its final rounds, every performance presents another opportunity for players to help build momentum for their teams heading into finals. With so many athletes enjoying impressive campaigns, the race for the 2026 VC Youth League Men MVP promises to go right down to the wire.
The Race to MVP series celebrates some of the standout performers across the Big V competition. With finals approaching, the race for individual honours remains wide open as players continue to help drive their teams towards postseason success.
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For Media Enquiries:
Maree DeGeorge
Basketball Victoria
Media & Communications Specialist
maree.degeorge@basketballvictoria.com.au
0499 851 266
