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The Hawks have wasted no time recruiting a new NBL Next Star to replace LaMelo Ball, signing Boise State sharpshooter Justinian Jessup.

The Hawks have signed NBA hopeful Justinian Jessup under the NBL's Next Stars program on the back of LaMelo Ball's successful stint in Australia.

Jessup, a 22-year-old sharpshooter, has completed his senior year at Boise State University and is eligible for the NBA draft in October - where Ball is projected as the No.1 pick.

If Jessup is drafted, the NBA team will have an option to place him with the Hawks to test him in a professional environment.

The New Orleans Pelicans used the same method last season with Didi Louzada at the Sydney Kings.

"It's a great opportunity to get NBA exposure while playing against tough competition," Jessup said.

"I'm excited about playing for (Hawks coach Brian) Goorjian and all the young guys on the team.

"LaMelo playing last year was huge for the league and brought a lot of exposure (for the NBL) and I know it's going to be tough competition, which I'm really looking forward to."

Jessup was the first player in Boise State history to record 1500 points, 500 rebounds, 250 assists, 150 steals and 50 blocks, and shot 325 three-point shots over four years.

"I am very pleased that Justinian will be part of the Hawks program," Goorjian said.

"He will give the team a real lift offensively, being a fantastic three-point shooter and a very good all-around player.

"He has a drive to play in the NBA and the Hawks will do everything possible to help him achieve his goal.

"He has a great work ethic and is an excellent teammate from all reports."

Jessup joins Josh Giddey (Adelaide 36ers) and Mojave King (Cairns Taipans) as Next Stars for the upcoming season, with South East Melbourne also openly active in the market.