8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Matthew Dellavedova
Australian guard Matthew Dellavedova #8 of the Cleveland Cavaliers poses during the Cleveland Cavaliers media day at Cleveland Clinic Courts on September 28, 2015 in Independence, Ohio. Photo: Jason Miller/Getty Images
Matthew Dellavedova: Undrafted to NBA Champion and Olympic Bronze Medallist
- Won an NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016
- Earned an Olympic bronze medal with the Australian Boomers at Tokyo 2020
- Played for three NBA teams over nine seasons, known for his tenacious defence
Matthew Dellavedova, an Australian point guard, rose from undrafted prospect to NBA champion, embodying grit and determination throughout his professional career.
Key Details
Name: Matthew Dellavedova
Age: 34
Team(s): Cleveland Cavaliers; Milwaukee Bucks; and Sacramento Kings.
Position: Point Guard
Size: 6'3" (191 cm)
Weight: 200 lbs (91 kg)
Accolades: NBA champion (2016); All-NBL Second Team (2022); 2× AP honourable mention All-American (2012, 2013); WCC Player of the Year (2012); 3× First-team All-WCC (2011–2013); and No. 4 retired by Saint Mary's Gaels
Matthew Dellavedova's playing style is characterised by his tenacious defence, high basketball IQ, and unrelenting work ethic. Known affectionately as "Delly" to fans and teammates alike, he built a reputation as a scrappy, energetic player who consistently punched above his weight in the NBA. His ability to disrupt opposing guards with persistent on-ball pressure made him a valuable asset, particularly during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Offensively, Dellavedova is a capable three-point shooter and a skilled passer. He excels in pick-and-roll situations, using his court vision to find open teammates or knock down mid-range jumpers when defenders go under screens. While not the most athletic player, Dellavedova compensates with smart positioning and a deep understanding of offensive schemes.
Matthew Dellavedova's Career
Dellavedova's journey to the NBA began at Saint Mary's College of California, where he became the school's all-time leader in scoring, assists, and games played. Despite his collegiate success, he went undrafted in the 2013 NBA Draft. Undeterred, Dellavedova joined the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Summer League and earned a roster spot through his trademark grit and determination.
In his rookie season, Dellavedova quickly established himself as a reliable backup point guard. His breakthrough came during the 2015 NBA playoffs, where he played a crucial role in the Cavaliers' run to the NBA Finals. Dellavedova's defence on league MVP Stephen Curry garnered significant attention, with his physical play sparking debates about the line between tough and dirty play.
The pinnacle of Dellavedova's NBA career came in the 2015-16 season when the Cavaliers won the NBA Championship. Coming off the bench, he provided valuable minutes and contributed to the historic comeback from a 3-1 series deficit against the Golden State Warriors. This championship cemented Dellavedova's status as a fan favourite in Cleveland.
Following his championship season, Dellavedova signed with the Milwaukee Bucks. While his role decreased over time, he continued to provide solid backup minutes and mentorship to younger players. In 2018, he returned to the Cavaliers via trade, coming full circle in his NBA journey.
Dellavedova's international career with the Australian Boomers, has been equally impressive. He has represented Australia at multiple Olympic Games and World Cups, playing a key role in the team's historic bronze medal victory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021).
Five Fast Facts
- Dellavedova is a sixth-generation Italian Australian, born and raised in Maryborough, Victoria.
- He played Australian rules football as a youth before focusing solely on basketball.
- Dellavedova's game-winning three-pointer for Saint Mary's against BYU in 2013 became known as the "Dellavedagger."
- He was the second player to have his jersey retired by Saint Mary's men's basketball program.
- Dellavedova briefly returned to Australia to play for Melbourne United in the NBL before making an NBA comeback with the Sacramento Kings.
Career Highlights Timeline
2013: Signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers as an undrafted free agent
2015: Played a key role in the Cavaliers' NBA Finals run, gaining attention for his defence on Stephen Curry
2016: Won NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers
2016: Signed a four-year, $38 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks
2018: Traded back to the Cleveland Cavaliers
2021: Won bronze medal with Australian Boomers at Tokyo Olympics
2022: Signed with the Sacramento Kings, returning to the NBA after a stint in the NBL
Matthew Dellavedova's NBA career is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. From going undrafted to becoming an NBA champion and Olympic medallist, Dellavedova has consistently defied expectations. His journey resonates with fans and aspiring players alike, showcasing that determination and basketball IQ can be just as valuable as raw athletic talent.
While his NBA stats may not stand out in record books, Dellavedova's impact on the game extends beyond numbers. His defensive tenacity, team-first mentality, and clutch performances in high-stakes situations have earned him respect throughout the league.
