8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: David Andersen
Australian David Andersen #13 of the Houston Rockets against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on November 20, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
David Andersen: 4-time Olympican and European champion's journey to the NBA
- European basketball legend with 12 league championships
- Four-time Olympian for the Australian Boomers
- Late NBA debut at age 29, playing for three teams in two seasons
David Andersen's basketball journey spans continents, featuring European success, Olympic appearances, and a brief but impactful NBA stint.
Key Details
Name: David Emil Andersen
Age: 43 (born 23 June 1980)
Team(s): Houston Rockets; Toronto Raptors; New Orleans Hornets (NBA); and Various European clubs
Position: Centre
Size: 6'11" (211 cm)
Weight: 245 lbs (111 kg)
Accolades: 3× EuroLeague champion (2001, 2006, 2008); All-EuroLeague First Team (2005); 2× NBL champion (2018, 2021); Liga ACB champion (2009); 3× LBA champion (2001, 2004, 2012); 3× Italian Cup winner (2001, 2002, 2012); Italian Supercup winner (2011); LBA Finals MVP (2004); Italian Cup MVP (2012); 4× Russian League champion (2005–2008); 3× Russian Cup winner (2005–2007); Turkish Cup winner (2013); Turkish Cup Final MVP (2013); LNB Pro A champion (2016); LNB All-Star Game (2016); Albert Schweitzer Tournament MVP (1998)
David Andersen's playing style was characterised by his versatility and skill set uncommon for a player of his size. Standing at 6'11", Andersen possessed the ability to play both inside and outside, making him a valuable asset in various offensive systems. His shooting touch extended beyond the paint, with a reliable mid-range jumper and the capability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting.
Defensively, Andersen used his length and basketball IQ to protect the rim and rebound effectively. While not known for his athleticism, he compensated with excellent positioning and timing. His European experience honed his passing skills, allowing him to facilitate from the high post and contribute to fluid offensive movements.
David Andersen's Career
David Andersen's professional career began in Australia with the Wollongong Hawks in 1998, but it was in Europe where he truly made his mark. After being drafted 37th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2002, Andersen opted to continue his development in Europe's top leagues. His time with Kinder Bologna in Italy proved fruitful, winning the Italian Cup, LBA championship, and EuroLeague title in the 2000-01 season.
Andersen's European journey continued with success at Montepaschi Siena, where he was named LBA Finals MVP in 2004. His move to CSKA Moscow elevated his status further, winning multiple Russian League titles and another EuroLeague championship in 2008. These accomplishments solidified Andersen as one of the most successful Australian players in European basketball history.
The NBA finally beckoned in 2009 when Andersen, at 29, signed with the Houston Rockets. Despite his late arrival to the league, he quickly adapted, providing valuable minutes as a backup centre. His NBA career, though brief, spanned three teams in two seasons, showcasing his ability to contribute at the highest level of basketball.
Andersen's international career with the Australian national team, the Boomers, was equally impressive. He represented Australia in four Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016), playing a crucial role in the team's front court. His experience and leadership were particularly valuable during the 2012 London Olympics, where he stepped up as the starting centre in Andrew Bogut's absence.
Five Fast Facts
- Won 12 league championships across Europe, including 3 EuroLeague titles
- Named to the All-EuroLeague First Team for the 2004-05 season
- Played in four consecutive Olympic Games for Australia (2004-2016)
- Made his NBA debut at age 29, seven years after being drafted
- Finished his career winning two NBL championships with Melbourne United (2018, 2021)
Career Highlights Timeline
1998: Begins professional career with Wollongong Hawks in the NBL
2000: Wins Italian Cup, LBA championship, and EuroLeague title with Kinder Bologna
2002: Drafted 37th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Draft
2004: Named LBA Finals MVP with Montepaschi Siena
2005: Selected to All-EuroLeague First Team while playing for CSKA Moscow
2008: Wins EuroLeague championship with CSKA Moscow
2009: Makes NBA debut with Houston Rockets
2012: Leads Australian Boomers in scoring at London Olympics
2018: Wins first NBL championship with Melbourne United
2021: Captures second NBL title with Melbourne United and retires from professional basketball
David Andersen's career stands as a testament to his adaptability and longevity in professional basketball. His success across multiple continents and leagues underscores his versatile skill set and basketball IQ. While his NBA career came later in life, it added a valuable chapter to an already illustrious career.
Andersen's impact on Australian basketball extends beyond his personal accolades. As a four-time Olympian and European champion, he helped pave the way for future generations of Australian players to succeed on the global stage. His journey from the NBL to European stardom and eventually the NBA serves as an inspiration and blueprint for aspiring Australian basketballers aiming to make their mark in the sport's most competitive arenas.
