8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Isaac Humphries
Australian Isaac Humphries of the 36ers is interviewed prior to the round three NBL match between Illawarra Hawks and Adelaide 36ers at WIN Entertainment Centre on October 05, 2024 in Wollongong, Australia. Photo: Jason McCawley/Getty Images
Isaac Humphries: From Kentucky to Adelaide, big man's professional journey
- NBL Rookie of the Year with Sydney Kings in 2017-18 season
- Played for the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA during the 2018-19 season
- Led the NBL in blocks per game during the 2020-21 season with Adelaide 36ers
Isaac Humphries is an Australian centre who has made his mark in both the NBA and NBL, showcasing his shot-blocking prowess and offensive versatility.
Key Details
Name: Isaac Humphries
Age: 26 (as of November 2024)
Team(s): Sydney Kings; Atlanta Hawks; Adelaide 36ers; and Melbourne United
Position: Centre
Size: 7'0" (2.13m)
Weight: 260 lbs (118 kg)
Isaac Humphries is a towering presence on the court, using his 7-foot frame to dominate in the paint on both ends of the floor. His game is built around his shot-blocking ability, which has made him one of the premier rim protectors in the NBL. Humphries possesses excellent timing and positioning, allowing him to alter shots without fouling, a skill that has translated well across different levels of competition.
Offensively, Humphries has developed a well-rounded game that extends beyond the traditional big man role. While he's proficient in post-up situations and as a roll man in pick-and-roll plays, he's also comfortable stepping out to the perimeter. His soft touch allows him to knock down mid-range jumpers consistently, and he's worked to extend his range to the three-point line, adding a valuable dimension to his offensive arsenal.
Isaac Humphries Career
Isaac Humphries' basketball journey began in Australia before taking him to the United States for his collegiate career. At the University of Kentucky, Humphries played a supporting role for two seasons, gaining valuable experience in one of college basketball's most prestigious programs. His time with the Wildcats, though limited in terms of playing time, provided a solid foundation for his professional career.
After declaring for the NBA draft in 2017, Humphries returned to Australia, signing with his hometown Sydney Kings for the 2017-18 NBL season. This move proved to be a turning point in his career. Humphries flourished in the increased role, averaging 6.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. His impressive performances earned him the NBL Rookie of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of Australia's most promising young talents.
Humphries' success in the NBL caught the attention of NBA teams, leading to a brief stint with the Atlanta Hawks during the 2018-19 season. While his time in the NBA was limited, it provided valuable experience at the highest level of professional basketball. Following his NBA experience, Humphries continued to develop his game in the G League with the Erie BayHawks and Lakeland Magic.
Returning to the NBL for the 2020-21 season, Humphries signed with the Adelaide 36ers. It was during this season that he truly came into his own as a dominant force in the league. Averaging 13.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and a league-leading 2.8 blocks per game, Humphries established himself as one of the NBL's premier big men. His shot-blocking ability, in particular, set him apart from his peers and earned him recognition as one of the best defensive players in the league.
Five Fast Facts
- Humphries started playing basketball at the age of 12, having previously played rugby league.
- He spent six months in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in 2010, where he experienced a significant growth spurt.
- Humphries attended the prestigious Scots College in Sydney before moving to the United States to play prep basketball at La Lumiere School in Indiana.
- He was named to the All-Tournament Team at the 2014 FIBA Under-17 World Championship, where Australia won the silver medal.
- Humphries made his senior debut for the Australian national team in a 2019 FIBA World Cup qualifying match against Kazakhstan, scoring 17 points and grabbing 7 rebounds.
Career Highlights Timeline
2015: Enrolled at the University of Kentucky
2017: Declared for the NBA draft after two seasons with Kentucky
2017-18: Signed with Sydney Kings, won NBL Rookie of the Year
2019: Signed with the Atlanta Hawks, making his NBA debut
2020-21: Led the NBL in blocks per game with Adelaide 36ers
2022: Signed with Melbourne United
2023: Returned to Adelaide 36ers, named Club MVP after career-best season
2024: Re-signed with Adelaide 36ers on a three-year deal
Isaac Humphries' journey through professional basketball exemplifies the globalisation of the sport and the increasing opportunities for Australian players to make their mark on the world stage. From his early days in Sydney to his time in the NCAA, NBA, and NBL, Humphries has consistently improved his game and adapted to new challenges.
As he enters his prime years, Humphries has established himself as one of the NBL's premier big men, with a skill set that could potentially see him return to the NBA. His commitment to the Adelaide 36ers and continued development suggest that the best may be yet to come for this talented Australian centre.
