'Hoop Dreams': Aussies' Summer League report card

• Complete list of every Australian in the NBA
• 2025 NBA Draft Tracker: Where every player was selected
• Player tracker: Trades, free agents and transactions
• Game times: Aussies in the 2025 Summer League

Australians men's basketballers are making a real impression in the opening days of the 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, Nevada.

With a mix of 2025 NBA draft picks, NBL standouts, and rising developmental prospects, Australia’s next generation of basketball stars is on full display, and several are pushing hard for NBA contracts or more meaningful rotation minutes.

Rocco Zikarsky, the 7’3” big man selected by Minnesota, hasn’t had extended floor time yet for the undefeated Timberwolves (2-0), but he’s made the most of every moment. Converting 3-of-4 field goal attempts, Zikarsky has shown flashes of elite lob finishing, rim protection, and rebounding instincts.

His first points, a powerful alley-oop slam against the Pelicans, came on his birthday.

Tyrese Proctor is beginning to justify Cleveland’s investment in signing him to a fully guaranteed deal. Starting for the Cavaliers (2-1), the guard is averaging 11.3 points, 3.7 assists, and 3 rebounds per game. While his shooting efficiency needs to be better, Proctor has impressed with his aggressive downhill drives, tight passing windows, and quick hands on defense — offering glimpses of a future rotation contributor.

Alex Toohey has been starting for the Warriors (1-1), averaging 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.5 steals in two games. After a shaky first outing, Toohey bounced back against Utah with a composed, high IQ performance that reminded fans why he's long been considered a top Aussie prospect. His added aggressiveness in his last game is a promising sign for Golden State’s development staff.

Toohey’s teammate Taran Armstrong, the first Tasmanian ever called up to the NBA, has had a quietly effective campaign. On a two-way contract, Armstrong is averaging 9.5 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds. His strong frame, polished handle, and confident rim attacks have given the Warriors added playmaking versatility and has a real shot to become an NBA backup level point guard.

Lachlan Olbrich, another 2025 draftee, bounced back well in his second appearance for the Bulls (0-2), posting 12 points and 6 rebounds in a raw but promising performance, his unorthodox movement allowing him to finesse his way to the rim on several occasions. Fellow Bull William "Davo" Hickey only played four minutes, but he made them count, scoring four points. More minutes should be coming his way in the next few games.

Johnny Furphy continues to grind for his spot on the reigning Eastern conference champion Pacers (1-1) entering his second NBA season. The Aussie is scoring nine points and balances three rebounds and 2.5 assists. Furphy has surprised several teams and fans alike with his burst to the rim, as he has thrown down several dunks already using a new improved handle. This should be a big year for Furphy. 

The Atlanta Hawks (2-0) tag teamed their pair of "Jacks" in their first two games as Jack McVeigh played off the bench in game one and Jack White in game two. They both had decent games as McVeigh put up seven points, with White outscoring him, dropping 10. Both have showcased their shooting ability, which is essential for the Hawks to surround their superstar playmaker Trae Young. 

Tyrell Harrison, a dual Australian-New Zealander, has been one of the breakout performers. Suiting up for the Denver Nuggets (0-2), the former Brisbane Bullet is averaging 11.5 points on excellent efficiency, along with 6.5 rebounds per game. With his physicality, soft touch, and dominance around the rim, Harrison is making a strong case for a two-way deal, either with Denver or another frontcourt needy team.

Biwali Bayles, formerly of the Sydney Kings and Illawarra Hawks, got on the board for the New York Knicks (0-2) with a banked three, his first points of the Summer League. While his minutes have been limited, the athletic guard has the tools to earn more opportunities if given time.

It’s clear that Australia’s Summer league talent pool is deep, but cracking into the NBA remains a tough road, one that demands consistency, adaptability and timing.

Still, with multiple Aussies holding their own against great competition, the signs are encouraging.

These Summer League campaigns may not all end in contracts, but they’re another step for many young Aussies trying to make it to the NBA.

Australian players in the 2025 Summer League

• ‍Atlanta Hawks: Jack McVeigh; and Jack White‍
• Chicago Bulls: Lachlan Olbrich; and William "Davo" Hickey‍
• Cleveland Cavaliers: Tyrese Proctor‍
• Denver Nuggets: Tyrell Harrison (Australian-New Zealander); and Reyne Smith‍
• Golden State Warriors: Alex Higgins-Titsha; Alex Toohey; and Taran Armstrong‍
• Indiana Pacers: Johnny Furphy
• Memphis Grizzlies: Will Magnay
• Minnesota Timberwolves: Rocco Zikarsky
• ‍New York Knicks: Biwali Bayles
• Oklahoma City Thunder: Alex Ducas
• Washington Wizards: Akoldah Gak