Ranking the 10 Best Australian NBA Players of All Time: Patty Mills, Andrew Bogut and More

Australian NBA players have left a powerful mark on the history of basketball. Australia has produced many talented players who have made it big in the NBA. These Australian NBA players have not only brought pride to their country but have also helped grow the sport back at home. The rise of the NBA in Australia can be credited to these athletes who made their name in the league and proved themselves among the best in the world.

Some of the most famous names in the NBA are Australian basketball players whom NBA fans admire. Their success has inspired younger generations and led to more talent emerging from the country.

Ranking Factors

To decide who the best Australian NBA players of all time are, we looked at the following factors:

• Total career points and statistics: How many points have they made in their career.
• NBA career achievements: If they have appeared in All-Star games, Defensive Teams, All-NBA Teams etc.
• Team impact and performance: How important were the players to their team
• Playoff appearances and titles: If the players have played any important matches
• Longevity and consistency in the league: A player's career span in the NBA

These factors help define what makes a player the best. It's not just about stats but also how much they contributed to their teams and how long they played at a high level. Their influence on and off the court is also important.

Ranking the 10 Best Australian NBA Players of All Time

Australia has given the NBA some truly amazing talent over the years. Let’s take a look at the 10 best Australian NBA basketball players and how they made their mark. These players have played key roles on various NBA teams. Some helped win championships, others made a name through solid defense or smart playmaking. Now, let’s explore how many Australian NBA players are there in detail.

#10: Aron Baynes

Aron Baynes is a strong and physical center known for his tough defense and rebounding. In his NBA career, Baynes played for teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, and Phoenix Suns. He has scored 3115 career points and made a name for himself with his hard work. Baynes won an NBA Championship with the Spurs in 2014, one of the big reasons why he made it to this list. He was never a superstar, but he was an important role player on every team he was in. His ability to protect the rim and rebound made him a valuable player. The 6-ft-10 center has recorded 255 blocks and 2396 rebounds in the NBA.

He ranks at number 10 because of his stats, having a ring, and steady contribution as a team player. His career shows how important role he played in a team’s success. Despite not being flashy, his value was always recognized by coaches and teammates. Aron announced his retirement from basketball as a player in 2024.

#9: Matisse Thybulle

Matisse Thybulle is known for his defensive skills. He is early in his NBA career, and he has become one of the top defenders. Thybulle has played for the Philadelphia 76ers, where he was the 20th overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft, and the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continues to lock players with his defense. He has made it to the All-Defensive Team twice in his career, once with the 76ers and once with the Trail Blazers.

He doesn’t score a lot of points; he has 1,698 career points at the time of writing this article, but his impact on the game is big. He’s often assigned to guard the best player on the other team and does it very well. Thybulle has also been named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team.

His ranking is based on his defense, team value, and ability to change a game without needing the ball. While his offensive skills are nothing to write home about, his skills on defense are good and respected across the league. That's why he deserves a spot in the top 10.

#8: Dante Exum

Dante Exum was once seen as one of the most exciting young prospects from Australia. He was picked 5th overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. Though injuries slowed down his career, Exum has shown glimpses of brilliance, especially with the Dallas Mavericks.

He has scored over 1,900 career points and is known for his speed, defense, and basketball IQ. Exum’s ability to play both the guard positions and his strong defensive skills have made him a useful player for many teams.

Even though his journey had ups and downs, his recent return to form with the Mavericks earned him respect from fans and experts. His ranking is based on his potential, recent strong performances, and overall value as a versatile player.

#7: Matthew Dellavedova

Matthew Dellavedova is one of the hardest-working players to come out of Australia. He played a major role for the Cleveland Cavaliers during their 2015 and 2016 NBA Finals and even won the NBA championship in 2016.

He’s not a big scorer as he has about 1,800 points in the NBA, but his energy, defense, and leadership were the key aspects in the NBA. Dellavedova earned respect from legends like LeBron James for his unselfish play on the team and in important moments on the court. He later played for the Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings before returning to play in Australia.

He ranks at number 7 because of his championship win, strong work ethic, and impact as a reliable team player. His career proves that attitude and effort can lead to great achievements.

#6: Josh Giddey

Josh Giddey is one of the most promising young Australian NBA players today. he is currently playing for the Chicago Bulls. Giddey quickly gained attention for his amazing passing skills, triple-doubles, and high basketball IQ. Since joining the NBA in 2021, he has scored over 2,500 points and continues to improve his performance every season.

Giddey became one of the youngest players in NBA history to record a triple-double and regularly fills up the stat sheet with points, rebounds, and assists. His height and vision make him a unique player who can handle and pass like a guard, even though he plays as a forward. Before getting traded to the Bulls in 2024, Giddey played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he was the 6th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft.

He ranks at #6 because of his quick rise, impact on a rebuilding Thunder team, and future potential. If he continues at this pace, he could move even higher on this list in the future. His presence shows how strong the future of Australian basketball looks.

#5: Luc Longley

Luc Longley made history as the first Australian player in the NBA. He is more than just a pioneer; he also played a key role in the Chicago Bulls’ second three-peat, winning NBA Championships in 1996, 1997, and 1998 alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

With over 2,700 career points, Longley was not a high scorer but was known for his defense, size, and smart gameplay. As the starting center for a legendary Bulls team, he was responsible for protecting the paint and keeping the team balanced on both ends of the court.

He ranks at 5 for being the first Australian in the league, helping make the NBA more popular in Australia, earning 3x NBA championships, and being part of one of the greatest teams in NBA history. His role in bringing success to the Bulls and representing Australia makes him a true legend.

#4: Joe Ingles

Joe Ingles is known for his sharp shooting, passing, and team-first attitude. Ingles currently plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He played most of his career with the Utah Jazz before joining the Milwaukee Bucks and later the Orlando Magic. Ingles has scored over 4,500 points in the NBA.

He’s one of the best three-point shooters from Australia and often led his team in assists. Ingles is also praised for his leadership and basketball IQ by fans and experts. His calm and unique style of playing has made him a favorite among coaches and fans.

He ranks at number 4 because of his consistency, long career, and strong all-around game. His ability to space the game floor and defend well gives him an important place on this list of the best Australian NBA players.

#3: Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons was one of the most hyped NBA rookies from Australia. He was the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft and quickly showed his all-around talent with the Philadelphia 76ers. Simmons has scored 5021 points and was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2018. He is a 3x All-Star, NBA steal leader in 2020, and was named NBA All-Rookie First Team.

He is known for his defense, passing ball, and ability to guard multiple positions. Simmons has made the NBA All-Defensive First Team and was an All-NBA first team. Although his scoring and shooting have been questioned, his defensive skills and playmaking are top-tier.

Simmons ranks at number 3 for his strong start, individual awards, and defensive impact. Despite recent struggles, his early years showed what a special talent he is. If he finds his form again, he could move higher up this list.

#2: Andrew Bogut

Andrew Bogut was the first Australian player to be drafted No. 1 overall in the NBA. He had a long and successful career, playing for teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, and Cleveland Cavaliers. He scored 6808 points in the NBA and is remembered for his defense, rebounding, and shot-blocking.

Bogut won an NBA Championship with the Warriors in 2015 and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team and All-NBA Third Team during his career. So, we have ranked him second as one of the best Australian players in NBA. His ability to protect the rim and lead the defense was key for every team he played on during his career.

He ranks at number 2 for his long career, championship win, and being one of the best defensive big men from Australia. Bogut helped put Australian talent in the spotlight and paved the way for the young generation to follow.

#1: Patty Mills

Patty Mills is the most successful and consistent Australian NBA player of all time. He is known for his clutch shooting and leadership. Mills has scored nearly 7,000 points in his NBA career. He played for the San Antonio Spurs for many years and won an NBA Championship in 2014.

Mills is praised for his shooting and for being a great teammate. He also played an important role in representing Australia proudly in the NBA and international competitions. His long career and impact on the court have earned him the top spot. He ranks at 1 for his scoring ability, championship ring, leadership, and being a true ambassador for Australian basketball. Mills has inspired many young players and will be remembered as a legend in both the NBA and Australian sports history.