Summary
The NBA season kicks off with significant developments for Australian players, particularly the unfortunate injury to Ben Simmons, who has torn his Achilles. This injury sidelines him for the entire season and raises concerns about his future participation in international tournaments, including the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Simmons was expected to be a starter for the Sacramento Kings, and his absence is a major setback for both his career and Australian basketball fans.
In Atlanta, Dyson Daniels and Jock Landale are making their mark. Daniels starts for the Hawks and had an impressive first game, showcasing his defensive skills and scoring ability. Meanwhile, Landale competes for minutes as a backup center, contributing effectively off the bench. Both players are positioned to play crucial roles on a team with playoff aspirations.
Josh Giddey, starting for the Chicago Bulls, faces challenges as the team rebuilds. Despite a rough first game, Giddey is expected to step up and support the young roster. Tyrese Proctor has a chance to secure a backup guard position with the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Johnny Furphy is recovering from an ACL injury but could play a significant role upon his return. In the Western Conference, Josh Green and Matisse Thybulle are also navigating their respective teams, with Thybulle starting for the Los Angeles Lakers and expected to focus on defense. Overall, the season presents both challenges and opportunities for these Australian players in the NBA.
Show Notes
Adam and Ayush dive into all the Aussies competing at the highest level as the NBA season tips off this week.
C2C Sport (c2csport.com.au) is Australia's basketball teamwear specialist, supplying custom uniforms and merchandise to clubs and associations since 1988. Use code PICKROLL to get 10% OFF your initial custom order. Shop their basketball range: https://c2csport.com.au/collections/c2c-custom-basketball-uniforms?ref=PICKANDROLL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
More from Unwrapped: The Pick and Roll Podcast
Adam and Lukas discuss the Tasmania Jewels’ debut last night and preview the WNBL season from the perspective of the round 1 games.
Adam and Tom chat to Portland Trailblazers’ Analytics Coach Jacob Mooallem, who got his start in the NBL for the New Zealand Breakers, about his journey so far, and working with Boomers Duop Reath and Matisse Thybulle.
Adam and Lukas run through their predictions for the remainder of the WNBA Playoffs, discuss Lukas’ experience at the FIBA Women’s World Cup, and the WNBL Preseason.
Adam and Jacob react to the first ten days of NBL basketball, discussing Illawarra’s early struggles, New Zealand’s competitive start, and Brisbane’s turnaround.
Adam, Tom and Jacob preview the NBL27 season, running through their burning questions, locks, bold calls, award winners, and picks for NBL Champion.