Aussies in NBA history: Aron Baynes

• NBA Champion with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014
• Olympic bronze medallist with the Australian Boomers in 2020
• Overcame career-threatening spinal cord injury to return to professional basketball

Aron Baynes' journey from Mareeba to NBA champion exemplifies the determination and skill of Australia's basketball exports, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Key Details

Name: Aron John Baynes
‍Age: 37 (born 9 December 1986)
‍Team(s): San Antonio Spurs; Detroit Pistons; Boston Celtics; Phoenix Suns; Toronto Raptors; and Brisbane Bullets
‍Position: Centre
‍Size: 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
‍Weight: 260 lb (118 kg)
Accolades: NBA champion (2014); Slovenian Cup champion (2013); Slovenian Supercup champion (2013); Greek League rebounding leader (2012); All-Greek League Second Team (2012); LKL champion (2010); Lithuanian Cup winner (2010); and LKL Slam Dunk Contest champion (2010).

Aron Baynes established himself as a formidable presence in the paint throughout his career, utilising his imposing 6'10" frame and 260-pound physique to dominate the boards and protect the rim. His physical style of play and willingness to set hard screens made him a valuable asset to any team, particularly in defensive schemes that required a strong interior presence.

As his career progressed, Baynes expanded his offensive repertoire, developing a reliable three-point shot that added a new dimension to his game. This evolution from a traditional back-to-the-basket centre to a stretch-five made him increasingly valuable in the modern NBA, where floor spacing is paramount. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc forced opposing big men to defend away from the basket, creating driving lanes for his teammates.

Aron Baynes Career

Aron Baynes' professional basketball journey began in Europe after he completed his college career at Washington State University. He honed his skills in Lithuania, Germany, Greece, and Slovenia before catching the eye of NBA scouts. His breakthrough came in 2013 when he signed with the San Antonio Spurs, a move that would prove pivotal in his career.

During his time with the Spurs, Baynes played a role in the team's 2014 NBA Championship run, providing valuable minutes off the bench and contributing to the team's depth. This experience at the highest level of basketball set the stage for his future success in the league. Following his stint with the Spurs, Baynes had productive spells with the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics, where he continued to develop his game and establish himself as a reliable rotation player.

Baynes' career reached new heights during his time with the Phoenix Suns in the 2019-20 season. He showcased his expanded offensive game, setting career highs in points and three-pointers made. On 6 March 2020, Baynes had a standout performance, scoring 37 points and hitting nine three-pointers against the Portland Trail Blazers, demonstrating his evolution as a modern NBA centre.

The Australian big man's NBA journey continued with the Toronto Raptors, but his time there was cut short due to injuries. In a testament to his resilience, Baynes overcame a career-threatening spinal cord injury sustained during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to make a comeback in professional basketball. He signed with the Brisbane Bullets in the National Basketball League (NBL) for the 2022-23 season, marking a return to his home country and showcasing his determination to continue playing at a high level.

Five Fast Facts

1. Baynes was born in Gisborne, New Zealand, but moved to Australia at the age of three.
2. He initially played rugby league before switching to basketball at the age of 15.
3. Baynes is one of only two players in NBA history to record 35+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 9 three-pointers in a single game.
4. He represented Australia in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics and FIBA World Cup.
5. Baynes overcame a severe spinal cord injury suffered during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to return to professional basketball.

Career Highlights Timeline

2009: Began professional career in Europe with Lietuvos Rytas

2013: Signed with the San Antonio Spurs, making his NBA debut

2014: Won NBA Championship with the San Antonio Spurs

2015: Signed with the Detroit Pistons as a free agent

2017: Joined the Boston Celtics, becoming a key role player

2019: Traded to the Phoenix Suns, where he had a career-best season

2020: Signed with the Toronto Raptors

2021: Suffered a spinal cord injury during the Tokyo Olympics

2022: Made a comeback by signing with the Brisbane Bullets in the NBL

2024: Announced retirement from professional basketball

Aron Baynes' basketball journey is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to the sport. From his humble beginnings in Far North Queensland to becoming an NBA champion and Olympic medallist, Baynes has left an indelible mark on Australian basketball. His ability to overcome significant challenges, including a career-threatening injury, showcases the determination that defined his career.

As Baynes hangs up his boots, he leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his on-court achievements. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring Australian basketballers, demonstrating that with perseverance and hard work, it's possible to reach the pinnacle of the sport.