The Challenging Journey of 14 Australian Players and One New Zealand Star in NBA 2024/25: Who Will Make the Biggest Impact?

Never before have so many Australian and New Zealand players participated in the NBA as in the 2024/25 season. Their involvement spans from top stars and key role players on major teams to young talents developing in rebuilding squads, and even two-way players splitting time between the NBA and G-League. Each player brings a unique story, along with different expectations and challenges for the upcoming season.

Josh Giddey – Chicago Bulls

Josh Giddey enters the most critical season of his young career. After being traded to the Chicago Bulls, Giddey is expected to serve as the team’s primary point guard and floor leader. This is also an opportunity for Giddey to prove his value ahead of restricted free agency. The Bulls, being a team in the midst of a rebuild, offer Giddey the chance to grow alongside their development process.

In Chicago, Giddey will play alongside talented players like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, giving him the platform to showcase his leadership abilities. If he can continue to improve his shooting, as seen during the Olympics, Giddey could elevate his game this season.

Dante Exum – Dallas Mavericks

Dante Exum is currently having one of the best seasons of his NBA career. Playing as a wing alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Exum has proven his defensive skills and shooting efficiency. Although he faces competition from newcomers like Klay Thompson, Exum remains a more well-rounded player on both ends of the floor. This is the final year of Exum’s “prove it” contract, and he has a great chance to increase his value with a strong season.

Josh Green – Charlotte Hornets

Josh Green was traded to the Charlotte Hornets in a multi-team deal. This could be a beneficial move for Green, as it offers him the opportunity to explore his skillset in a team not immediately focused on winning. In Dallas, Green’s role was limited due to Luka Doncic’s dominance, but at Charlotte, Green will have more freedom to develop his game, and his minutes are expected to increase.

Joe Ingles – Minnesota Timberwolves

Joe Ingles signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, bringing experience and playmaking ability to a team looking to build on last season’s Conference Finals run. Known for his three-point shooting, Ingles replaces Kyle Anderson on the roster and already has strong relationships with teammates Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley, which will help his integration into the team.

Dyson Daniels – Atlanta Hawks

Dyson Daniels was traded to the Atlanta Hawks during the offseason, and this move is expected to be a great fit for him. His skillset complements Trae Young well, allowing him to play both on and off the ball. Daniels had a strong showing at the Olympics, and his defensive prowess combined with improved shooting will be key to his role with the Hawks.

Patty Mills – Utah Jazz

Patty Mills, entering his 16th season in the NBA, continues to bring leadership and veteran experience to the Utah Jazz. In a rebuilding team like Jazz, Mills is expected to mentor the younger players while also contributing on the court with his excellent shooting abilities. Mills has a long-standing relationship with head coach Will Hardy, making him a perfect fit for this team.

Ben Simmons – Brooklyn Nets

Ben Simmons is returning to the NBA after dealing with injuries and surgeries. In the final year of his five-year contract, Simmons has a lot to prove, aiming to get back to his All-Star form. Brooklyn Nets have started to use Simmons in more traditional big-man roles, and he will need to demonstrate that he can stay healthy and perform effectively for the team.

Steven Adams – Houston Rockets

After a long absence due to injury, Steven Adams is returning with the Houston Rockets. Adams, known for his strong defense, will be backing up Alperen Sengun. His physical presence and playoff experience could make him a valuable trade asset as the season progresses.

Jock Landale – Houston Rockets

Jock Landale will also be playing for the Houston Rockets this season. While he begins as the third center, Landale’s work ethic and consistency could earn him more playing time as the season unfolds. Following an impressive showing at the Olympics, Landale has established himself as a reliable big man in the NBA.

Johnny Furphy – Indiana Pacers

Johnny Furphy enters his rookie season with the Indiana Pacers, carrying high expectations for development. Although sidelined with an ankle injury during the preseason, Furphy made a strong impression in the Summer League. He’s expected to spend time in the G-League, but the potential for growth in Indiana is promising.

Other players like Luke Travers, Jack McVeigh, and Alex Ducas will also have opportunities to develop through two-way contracts, continuing to represent Australian basketball talent in the NBA for the 2024/25 season.