8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Mitch Creek
Australian Mitchell Creek of the Phoenix prepares to shoot a free throw during the round nine NBL match between South East Melbourne Phoenix and New Zealand Breakers at John Cain Arena, on December 02, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Mitchell Creek: From NBL star to the NBA
- Made NBA debut with Brooklyn Nets in 2019, scoring his first point
- Named NBL Fans MVP and All-NBL Second Team in 2017-18 season
- Led South East Melbourne Phoenix as franchise leader in points, rebounds, assists, and steals
Mitchell Creek's basketball journey exemplifies resilience and versatility, from NBL stardom to NBA stints and success across international leagues.
Key Details
Name: Mitchell Creek
Age: 32
Team(s): Adelaide 36ers; Brooklyn Nets; Minnesota Timberwolves; South East Melbourne Phoenix; and Trabzonspor
Position: Small Forward/Shooting Guard
Size: 6'6" (198 cm)
Weight: 225 lbs (102 kg)
Mitchell Creek's playing style is characterised by his versatility and tenacity on both ends of the court. Standing at 6'6" with a solid 225-pound frame, Creek possesses the physical attributes to defend multiple positions effectively. His strength allows him to hold his ground against larger opponents in the post, while his quickness enables him to stay in front of perimeter players.
Offensively, Creek is known for his aggressive drives to the basket and ability to finish through contact. He has a decent outside shot, which he has continued to develop throughout his career, making him a threat from beyond the arc. Creek's basketball IQ and court vision also allow him to create opportunities for his teammates, often serving as a secondary playmaker when needed.
Career
Mitchell Creek's professional career began in 2010 when he joined the Adelaide 36ers in the NBL. Over eight seasons with the 36ers, Creek developed from a raw talent into one of the league's most impactful players. His breakout came in the 2017-18 season, where he averaged 14.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, earning All-NBL Second Team honours and the NBL Fans MVP award.
Creek's performances in the NBL caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to a Summer League stint with the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. This opportunity paved the way for his NBA journey, which began with the Brooklyn Nets' G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets. Creek's hard work paid off when he signed a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets in January 2019, making his NBA debut and scoring his first point in the league.
Following his time with the Nets, Creek signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, further solidifying his place in NBA history as one of the few Australians to play in the league. Although his NBA stint was brief, it demonstrated Creek's ability to compete at the highest level of basketball.
Returning to Australia, Creek became a cornerstone player for the South East Melbourne Phoenix from 2019 to 2024. During his time with the Phoenix, he continued to elevate his game, setting franchise records and consistently performing at an elite level. His leadership and on-court production were integral to the team's success, including a semifinals appearance in the 2020-21 season.
Five Fast Facts
- Creek was named the MVP of the 2010 Albert Schweitzer Tournament, leading Australia to its first gold medal in the event.
- He overcame a ruptured Achilles tendon early in his career, showcasing his resilience and determination.
- Creek has played in multiple international leagues, including Germany, Puerto Rico, China, and Turkey.
- He scored a career-high 46 points in a double-overtime NBL game against the Sydney Kings in December 2022.
- Creek represented Australia at the youth level, winning gold at the Under-20 National Championships.
Career Highlights Timeline
2010: Joined the Adelaide 36ers, beginning his NBL career
2012: Suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, a significant setback in his early career
2014: Helped Adelaide 36ers reach the NBL Grand Final
2018: Named NBL Fans MVP and earned All-NBL Second Team honours
2019: Made NBA debut with the Brooklyn Nets
2019: Signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves
2019: Joined South East Melbourne Phoenix for their inaugural NBL season
2022: Scored a career-high 46 points in an NBL game
2023: Named to the All-NBL Second Team for the second time in his career
2024: Signed with Trabzonspor in the Turkish Basketball Super League
Mitchell Creek's basketball journey is a testament to his perseverance, adaptability, and skill. From his early days as a promising talent in the NBL to his breakthrough into the NBA and subsequent success in international leagues, Creek has continually evolved his game and taken on new challenges.
His impact on Australian basketball extends beyond his personal achievements. Creek's journey has inspired young players in Australia, showing that with dedication and hard work, it's possible to compete on the global stage. As he continues his career with Trabzonspor in Turkey, Mitchell Creek remains an important figure in Australian basketball, representing the country's growing influence in the international basketball landscape.
