8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Nathan Jawai
Nathan Jawai: From Remote Cape York to NBA
- First Indigenous Australian to play in the NBA
- Drafted 41st overall in 2008 NBA Draft by Indiana Pacers, traded to Toronto Raptors
- Successful career across NBA, European leagues, and Australian NBL
Nathan Jawai's journey from remote Cape York to becoming Australia's first Indigenous NBA player is a testament to his resilience and talent.
Name: Nathan Leon Jawai
Age: 38 (born 10 October 1986)
Team(s): Toronto Raptors; Minnesota Timberwolves; Cairns Taipans; and Perth Wildcats
Position: Power Forward / Centre
Size: 209 cm (6'10")
Weight: 130 kg (287 lbs)
Nathan Jawai's playing style was characterised by his imposing physical presence and strength in the paint. Standing at 209 cm and weighing 130 kg, Jawai earned nicknames like "Aussie Shaq" and "Outback Shaq" due to his resemblance to Shaquille O'Neal. His size and power made him a formidable force under the basket, both offensively and defensively.
Jawai's game centred around his ability to use his body to create space and finish strongly at the rim. He was particularly effective in the low post, where he could overpower smaller defenders and utilise his soft touch around the basket. While not known for his range, Jawai's offensive repertoire focused on high-percentage shots close to the hoop, making him an efficient scorer when given the opportunity.
Nathan Jawai's Career
Nathan Jawai's professional basketball journey began with the Cairns Taipans in the Australian NBL during the 2007-08 season. His impressive performances, averaging 17.3 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, caught the attention of NBA scouts. This led to Jawai being drafted 41st overall in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, with his rights immediately traded to the Toronto Raptors.
Jawai's NBA debut came on 21 January 2009 with the Raptors, marking a historic moment as he became the first Indigenous Australian to play in the NBA. His time in the world's top basketball league was brief but significant, spanning parts of two seasons with the Raptors and Minnesota Timberwolves. While he struggled to find consistent playing time, Jawai's presence in the NBA paved the way for future Indigenous Australian players.
After his NBA stint, Jawai embarked on a successful career in European basketball. He played for several high-profile clubs, including Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, UNICS Kazan in Russia, and FC Barcelona in Spain. These experiences allowed Jawai to develop his game further and compete at a high level in some of Europe's top leagues.
Jawai's career came full circle when he returned to Australia, playing for the Perth Wildcats in the 2015-16 NBL season. He was a key contributor to the Wildcats' championship-winning team that year, showcasing his value as an experienced big man. Following this success, Jawai returned to his roots, signing with the Cairns Taipans for multiple seasons, solidifying his status as a respected veteran in the Australian league.
Five Fast Facts
- Jawai is the cousin of NBA player Patty Mills and NRL players Edrick Lee and Brenko Lee
- His great uncle is Indigenous land rights activist Eddie Mabo
- Jawai began playing basketball at the age of 15, relatively late for a future professional
- He played college basketball for one season at Midland College in the United States
- Jawai has represented Australia as part of the national team, the Boomers
Career Highlights Timeline
2007: Joined Cairns Taipans in the NBL, averaging 17.3 points and 9.4 rebounds per game
2008: Drafted 41st overall in the NBA Draft by Indiana Pacers, rights traded to Toronto Raptors
2009: Made NBA debut with Toronto Raptors, becoming first Indigenous Australian in the NBA
2010: Signed with Partizan Belgrade, beginning his European basketball career
2012: Joined FC Barcelona, competing in the EuroLeague
2015: Returned to Australia, winning NBL championship with Perth Wildcats
2016: Signed three-year deal to return to Cairns Taipans
Nathan Jawai's basketball career is a remarkable story of perseverance and achievement. From his beginnings in remote Cape York to becoming the first Indigenous Australian in the NBA, Jawai has left an indelible mark on Australian basketball. His journey through the NBA, top European leagues, and the Australian NBL demonstrates his adaptability and enduring skill as a professional player.
Jawai's legacy extends beyond his on-court achievements. As a trailblazer for Indigenous Australian basketball players, he has opened doors and inspired future generations. His career serves as a powerful example of how talent, combined with opportunity and determination, can lead to success on the global stage.
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