Aussies in the NBA: Duop Reath

• First Australian of South Sudanese descent to play in the NBA
• Bronze medallist with the Australian national team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
• Signed standard NBA contract with Portland Trail Blazers in February 2024

Duop Reath's journey from Sudan to the NBA exemplifies perseverance and talent, making him a rising star in Australian basketball.

Key Details

Name: Duop Reath
‍Age: 28
‍Team(s): Portland Trail Blazers
‍Position: Centre
‍Size: 6'9" (206 cm)
‍Weight: 245 lbs (111 kg)

Duop Reath brings a versatile skill set to the court that makes him a valuable asset in the modern NBA. At 6'9", he possesses the size to battle in the paint defensively, while his mobility allows him to switch onto smaller players on the perimeter. Reath's shooting touch extends beyond the three-point line, making him a threat as a stretch five who can space the floor and open up driving lanes for his teammates.

His game is characterised by a smooth offensive repertoire that includes a soft touch around the rim, the ability to face up and attack off the dribble, and a developing post game. Reath's basketball IQ shines through in his positioning and timing, often finding himself in the right spots for putbacks and dump-off passes from penetrating guards.

Duop Reath's Career

Reath's path to the NBA was anything but conventional. Born in Sudan, he moved to Australia at age nine, settling first in Brisbane before relocating to Perth. It wasn't until a growth spurt in high school that Reath transitioned from soccer to basketball, setting the stage for his eventual professional career.

His college journey began at Lee College in Texas, where he honed his skills for two years before transferring to Louisiana State University (LSU). At LSU, Reath's game flourished, averaging over 12 points and 5 rebounds per game in both his junior and senior seasons. His performances caught the eye of professional scouts, leading to opportunities overseas after going undrafted in 2018.

Reath's professional career began in Serbia, where he played for FMP and later Crvena zvezda, gaining valuable experience in European basketball. He then returned to Australia to play for the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL, further developing his game and raising his profile. A stint in China with the Qingdao Eagles followed, where Reath's averages of 18.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game showcased his potential as a dominant big man.

The Portland Trail Blazers recognised Reath's talent, signing him to a two-way contract in October 2023. He made an immediate impact, scoring 11 points in his NBA debut against the Los Angeles Lakers. Reath's performances continued to impress, culminating in a career-high 25 points against the Sacramento Kings in December 2023. His consistent play and development led to the Trail Blazers converting his two-way contract to a standard NBA deal in February 2024, solidifying his place in the league.

Five Fast Facts

1. Reath was born in Waat, Sudan, and moved to Australia at age nine
2. He initially played soccer and aspired to represent Australia before switching to basketball
3. Reath won a bronze medal with the Australian Boomers at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
4. He played college basketball for Lee College and LSU before starting his professional career in Serbia
5. Reath made his NBA debut at age 27, scoring 11 points against the Los Angeles Lakers

Career Highlights Timeline

2014: Begins college career at Lee College in Texas

2016: Transfers to LSU, averaging 12.0 points and 6.7 rebounds in his junior year

2018: Goes undrafted in NBA Draft, signs with FMP in Serbia

2020: Joins Crvena zvezda, continuing his European basketball development

2021: Returns to Australia to play for Illawarra Hawks in the NBL

2022: Signs with Qingdao Eagles in China, averaging 18.2 points and 7.8 rebounds

2023: Joins Portland Trail Blazers on a two-way contract, makes NBA debut

2024: Signs standard NBA contract with Portland Trail Blazers in February

Duop Reath's ascension to the NBA is a testament to his resilience, skill development, and unwavering determination. From his humble beginnings in Sudan to becoming a key player for the Portland Trail Blazers, Reath's journey embodies the spirit of perseverance that resonates with basketball fans worldwide.

As he continues to establish himself in the NBA, Reath not only represents a success story for Australian basketball but also serves as an inspiration for young players of South Sudanese descent. His unique combination of size, skill, and shooting ability makes him a prototype for the modern NBA centre, and as he gains more experience at the highest level, Reath has the potential to become a cornerstone player for both the Trail Blazers and the Boomers for years to come.