Aussies Shine in NBA; Giannis Signs Monster Deal

The 2023-24 NBA season is set to tip off, and Australian basketball players are in the spotlight. As rising stars secure lucrative contracts and veterans bring their experience to new teams, there's plenty to watch Down Under. However, not all Aussies have good news, as some face disappointment due to brutal cuts by NBA teams.

The eve of the 2023-24 NBA season has brought a mixture of joy and disappointment for Australian basketball players. While several are set to make significant contributions to their respective teams, others have faced the harsh reality of being cut from NBA rosters just before the season tip-off.

One of the brightest prospects for Australian basketball in the NBA is Josh Giddey. He is entering his third season with the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team that is expected to be a contender in the Western Conference. Giddey's playmaking abilities and versatility have caught the attention of fans and experts alike, making him a crucial player for the Thunder's future success.

Another Australian player making waves in the NBA is Jock Landale. He decided to take a pay rise and join the Houston Rockets, a team with aspirations of rebuilding and competing in the future. Landale's skills as a versatile big man make him a valuable addition to the Rockets' roster.

Patty Mills and Joe Ingles are providing veteran leadership to their respective teams. Mills is set to bring his experience and clutch shooting to the Atlanta Hawks, while Ingles will contribute to the Orlando Magic's development. Their presence on and off the court is expected to have a positive impact on their teams.

One of the most significant contracts involving an Australian player is Josh Green's three-year, $41 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks. Green, at only 22 years old, has shown immense potential, and the Mavericks are investing in his future. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an exciting player to watch.

Dante Exum has made a return to the NBA after a stint in Europe. Injuries plagued the early stages of his career, but he now has an opportunity to revive his NBA journey.

One Australian player who has been a topic of conversation is Ben Simmons. Known for his exceptional talent, Simmons has faced criticism for his performances in recent years. However, his preseason play with the Brooklyn Nets has garnered attention and raised hopes that he can return to his All-Star form. If Simmons can find his groove with the Nets, he has the potential to be a game-changer in the NBA.

On the flip side, several Australian players faced disappointment as they were waived by their respective teams just before the season. Jack White, who won an NBA championship with the Denver Nuggets last season, was waived by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Xavier Cooks, a former NBL MVP, played a few games for the Washington Wizards last season but also received a waiver. Dejan Vasiljevic has returned to the NBL with the Adelaide 36ers after being let go by the Wizards. Cooks, whose NBL days are behind him, may explore opportunities in Europe if he doesn't find another NBA team.

Makur Maker, once considered a promising prospect, was waived by the Toronto Raptors. However, big man Duop Reath's NBA dream is still alive. He signed a two-way deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, which allows him to play in the G-League while maintaining a connection to the NBA.

In other NBA news, two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo agreed to a massive three-year contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks. The extension is worth $186 million and provides a significant boost to the Bucks, who aim to keep their championship window open. The move was prompted by Antetokounmpo's desire to maintain the team's competitiveness, leading to the acquisition of Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers.

The NBA season is set to begin with much anticipation and excitement. Games like the Nuggets facing the LA Lakers and a clash between the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors will kick off the action. As Australian players continue to make their mark in the NBA, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the start of another thrilling season.

As the NBA season gets underway, Australian players are making waves in different ways. Young talents like Josh Giddey and Jock Landale have exciting opportunities, while veterans Patty Mills and Joe Ingles add experience to their respective teams. Notably, Josh Green signs a substantial $41 million deal, but some Australians find themselves waived by their NBA squads.