8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Mangok Mathiang
Mangok Mathiang of the Breakers during the round 19 NBL match between New Zealand Breakers and Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena, on February 09, 2024, in Auckland, New Zealand. Photo: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
Mangok Mathiang: From South Sudan to Louisville to the Charlotte Hornets
- First South Sudanese-Australian to play in the NBA
- Won an NCAA Championship with Louisville in 2013
- Represented both Australia and South Sudan in international basketball
Mangok Mathiang's journey from war-torn Sudan to the NBA embodies resilience and determination, making him a trailblazer for South Sudanese-Australian basketball players.
Key Details
Name: Mangok Mathiang
Age: 32
Team(s): Charlotte Hornets; and Greensboro Swarm (G League)
Position: Centre/Power Forward
Size: 6'10" (208 cm)
Weight: 230 lbs (104 kg)
Mangok Mathiang's playing style is characterised by his toughness on the defensive end and his relentless work ethic. Standing at 6'10" with a strong frame, Mathiang utilises his size and athleticism to be a formidable presence in the paint. His shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess make him a valuable asset on the defensive end, often altering opponents' shots and securing possessions for his team.
Offensively, Mathiang's game is centred around his energy and hustle. He excels in pick-and-roll situations, setting solid screens and rolling hard to the basket for lobs or putbacks. While not known for his scoring touch, Mathiang has developed a serviceable mid-range jump shot and can finish strong around the rim. His offensive rebounding skills create second-chance opportunities for his team, exemplifying his relentless motor on the court.
Mangok Mathiang's Career
Mangok Mathiang's basketball journey began in Australia after his family fled war-torn Sudan. His natural athleticism and height led him to transition from Australian rules football to basketball at the age of 16. Seeking to enhance his skills and exposure, Mathiang moved to the United States to play high school basketball, first at Brehm Preparatory School in Illinois and then at the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida.
Mathiang's collegiate career at the University of Louisville was marked by steady improvement and team success. After sitting out his first year due to NCAA regulations, he contributed to Louisville's 2013 NCAA Championship victory. Throughout his time with the Cardinals, Mathiang established himself as a defensive anchor and team leader, serving as team captain for two seasons. Despite facing setbacks, including a foot injury that limited his junior year, Mathiang persevered and finished his senior season averaging 7.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game.
Following his college career, Mathiang went undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft but caught the attention of the Charlotte Hornets during the NBA Summer League. His performances earned him a two-way contract with the Hornets, splitting time between the NBA and the G League affiliate Greensboro Swarm. While his NBA experience was limited to just 20 minutes of playing time, Mathiang became only the fifth Sudanese-born player to appear in an NBA game, joining the likes of Manute Bol and Luol Deng.
Mathiang's professional journey continued in Europe, where he showcased his skills in Italy's Lega Basket Serie A with Vanoli Cremona. His impact was immediate, averaging a double-double with 11.3 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. He played a crucial role in helping Cremona secure their first-ever Italian Cup victory in 2019, solidifying his reputation as a valuable contributor to team success.
Five Fast Facts:
- Mathiang fled Sudan at the age of five, living in Egypt before settling in Australia at seven years old.
- He didn't start playing basketball until he was 16, previously focusing on Australian rules football and other sports.
- Mathiang was part of the Louisville Cardinals team that won the 2013 NCAA Championship.
- He became the fifth Sudanese-born player to appear in an NBA game when he debuted for the Charlotte Hornets.
- Mathiang has represented both the Australian national team and the South Sudan national team in international competitions.
Career Highlights Timeline:
2012: Joined the University of Louisville basketball program
2013: Member of Louisville's NCAA Championship-winning team
2017: Signed two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets
2018: Made NBA debut, becoming the fifth Sudanese-born player in league history
2019: Won Italian Cup with Vanoli Cremona, averaging a double-double for the season
2022: Signed with Illawarra Hawks in Australia's National Basketball League
2023: Named to South Sudan's national team for the 2023 FIBA World Cup
Mangok Mathiang's basketball career is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. From his humble beginnings as a refugee to becoming an NCAA champion and NBA player, Mathiang has consistently overcome obstacles to pursue his passion for basketball. His journey has not only paved the way for other South Sudanese-Australian players but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes facing adversity.
As Mathiang continues his professional career, his impact extends beyond the basketball court. He represents the power of sport to transcend borders and unite people from diverse backgrounds. Whether competing in the NBA, European leagues, or representing his heritage on the international stage.
