Aussies in the NBA: Dyson Daniels

• Eighth overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans
• Made his Australian senior national team debut at age 17
• Versatile guard known for his elite defensive skills and playmaking ability

Dyson Daniels is a rising Australian basketball star making waves in the NBA with his well-rounded game and defensive prowess.

Key Details

‍Name: Dyson James Daniels
Age: 21
Team: Atlanta Hawks
Position: Shooting guard
Size: 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
Weight: 199 lb (90 kg)

Playing style

Dyson Daniels is a versatile guard who excels on both ends of the court. His 6'7" frame allows him to defend multiple positions effectively, making him a valuable asset in today's switch-heavy NBA defences. Daniels possesses excellent lateral quickness and anticipation, enabling him to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers.Offensively, Daniels is a skilled playmaker with exceptional court vision. He thrives in transition and has the ability to create for himself and his teammates in half-court settings.

While his outside shooting is still developing, Daniels has shown improvement in this area and has the potential to become a reliable three-point threat as his career progresses.

Career

Dyson Daniels' journey to the NBA began in his hometown of Bendigo, Victoria, where he honed his skills playing for the Bendigo Braves in the NBL1. His talents quickly caught the attention of scouts, leading to an invitation to join the NBA Global Academy in Canberra.

This experience proved invaluable in preparing Daniels for the next step in his career.In 2021, Daniels made the bold decision to sign with the NBA G League Ignite, bypassing offers from college programs and the NBL Next Stars program. This move allowed him to compete against professional talent and further develop his game. During his time with the Ignite, Daniels showcased his all-around skills, averaging 12 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 2 steals per game in 26 appearances.

Daniels' impressive performances in the G League caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection as the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite a minor setback with an ankle injury during Summer League play, Daniels signed his rookie contract with the Pelicans and began his NBA career.In his first two seasons with New Orleans, Daniels steadily improved his game and earned increased playing time. His defensive prowess and playmaking ability quickly made him a valuable rotation player for the Pelicans.

In July 2024, Daniels was involved in a significant trade that sent him to the Atlanta Hawks, where he continues to develop and contribute as a key piece of their young core. On 6 July 2024, Daniels, along with EJ Liddell, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller (via sign-and-trade), plus a 2025 first-round pick (via Lakers) as well as a conditional 2027 first-round pick were traded to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for veteran Dejounte Murray.

Five Fast Facts

1. Daniels made his debut for the Australian senior national team at just 17 years old.
2. His father, Ricky Daniels, played college basketball at NC State and had a successful professional career in Australia.
3. Daniels was a talented Australian rules footballer before focusing solely on basketball.
4. He competed in the Rising Stars Challenge at the 2022 NBA All-Star Weekend.
5. Daniels hit a game-winning reverse layup for Australia in a preparation game against France for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Career Highlights Timeline

‍2018: Won gold medal with Australia at the FIBA Oceania Under-15 Championship
‍2019: Signed with Bendigo Braves in the NBL1
‍2021: Joined the NBA G League Ignite
‍2022: Selected 8th overall in the NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans
‍2024: Traded to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a multi-player deal

Dyson Daniels represents the next generation of Australian basketball talent making an impact in the NBA. His unique combination of size, defensive ability, and playmaking skills make him a valuable asset in today's positionless basketball era.

As he continues to develop his game and gain experience at the highest level, Daniels has the potential to become a cornerstone player for the Atlanta Hawks and a key figure in the Australian national team for years to come.Daniels' journey from Bendigo to the NBA serves as an inspiration for young Australian basketball players aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

His success highlights the growing pipeline of talent from Australia to the NBA and further cements the country's reputation as a basketball powerhouse on the global stage.