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NBL-United States | 2026 Commissioner’s Cup
League’s Elite Shine in Historic Commissioner’s Cup Campaign
Houston, Texas — The National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US) proudly announces the 2026 All NBL-US First Team, recognizing the top five players from this year’s Commissioner’s Cup. These athletes have set the standard for excellence across the league, delivering historic performances, leading their teams to playoff contention, and solidifying their status as premier talents in the NBL-US.
This year’s First Team features a dynamic mix of scoring dominance, all-around versatility, leadership, and winning impact — showcasing exactly what the NBL-US represents as The Exposure League and The Incentive League.
2026 All NBL-US First Team
Zaire Walker – HBCU Movement https://basketball.usbasket.com/player/Zaire-Walker/618854# delivered one of the most electrifying seasons in NBL-US history. Representing an undefeated HBCU Movement squad, Walker shattered the league’s scoring record with an astonishing 40.2 points per game. His season was highlighted by a historic 69-point performance, the highest single-game total in NBL-US history, along with a 65-point outing that further cemented his dominance.
Beyond scoring, Walker proved to be a complete player, averaging 8.7 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game, impacting every facet of the game. His ability to take over games while elevating his team to perfection makes this one of the greatest individual seasons ever recorded in the league.
Nate Leach – Lake Houston Flight Nate Leach https://basketball.usbasket.com/player/Nate-Leach/418012 emerged as one of the most dominant all-around players in the NBL-US, leading the Lake Houston Flight to a 3rd seed playoff position. Leach averaged 27.3 points per game, including a jaw-dropping 60-point performance, while also controlling the glass and facilitating at an elite level.
Leach led the entire league in both rebounds (15.0 per game) and assists (8.0 per game) — a rare and remarkable achievement that underscores his versatility and leadership. His impact extended beyond scoring, as he consistently dictated the tempo and flow of every game he played.
Richard Thomas – Montgomery County Dragons in their inaugural season, the Montgomery County Dragons made an immediate impact — and Richard Thomas https://basketball.usbasket.com/player/Richard-Thomas/631865 was at the center of it all. Leading his team to a playoff berth, Thomas averaged 31.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, placing him in the top five in all three statistical categories league-wide.
Thomas’ ability to produce at a high level night in and night out established him as one of the most complete players in the NBL-US, combining scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to elevate a first-year franchise into postseason contention.
Xavier Howard – East Houston United A proven winner and one of the most decorated players in league history, Xavier Howard https://basketball.usbasket.com/player/Xavier-Howard/360039 continued to build on his legacy. The 5-time NBL-US Champion and 2025 MVP led East Houston United to the 2nd seed in the playoffs, delivering another dominant season.
Howard averaged 35.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, including explosive performances of 54 and 46 points. His leadership, championship pedigree, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments make him one of the defining figures of the NBL-US era.
Mario Brown Jr. – Cypress VenomIn his rookie campaign, Mario Brown Jr. quickly established himself as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons. As the leading scorer for the Cypress Venom, Brown averaged 26.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
Known for his elite shooting ability and scoring efficiency, Brown made an immediate impact and emerged as one of the top young talents in the league. His performance this season signals the arrival of a future star within the NBL-US.
💬 Statement from Commissioner Lillian CounteeNBL-US Commissioner Lillian Countee shared her thoughts on this year’s First Team selections:
“The 2026 All NBL-US First Team represents the very best of what our league stands for — excellence, development, and opportunity. Each of these young men has demonstrated an elite level of performance, consistency, and leadership throughout the Commissioner’s Cup season.
Zaire Walker delivered one of the most historic scoring seasons we have ever seen, while Nate Leach showcased what it truly means to be a complete player by leading the league in both rebounding and assists. Richard Thomas proved that greatness can emerge instantly, leading a first-year franchise into the playoffs. Xavier Howard continues to define what sustained excellence looks like in our league, and Mario Brown Jr. has set the tone for the next generation of stars with an outstanding rookie campaign.
I want to personally congratulate each player, as well as their coaches and organizations, for their commitment to development and high-level competition. These selections are not just about statistics — they represent discipline, preparation, and the pursuit of greatness.
As we move into the playoffs, I am excited to see how these elite players continue to elevate the game. The future of the NBL-United States is incredibly bright, and this group is leading the way.”
About NBL-United StatesThe National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US) is the premier college and professional development league in the country, providing exposure, structure, and opportunity for athletes ages 16 and up. Through FIBA-aligned competition, verified statistics, and global visibility, the NBL-US continues to serve as a pathway to collegiate and professional basketball opportunities.
For more information, visit:🌐 usnbl.com