Aussies in the NBA: Joe Ingles

• Utah Jazz all-time leader in three-pointers made
• EuroLeague champion with Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2014
• Bronze medallist with the Australian national team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics

Joe Ingles is an Australian basketball player known for his sharp-shooting ability, versatility, and leadership on the court. His journey from the NBL to becoming an NBA veteran showcases his resilience and skill development.

Key Details

‍Name: Joe Ingles
Age: 37
Team(s): Minnesota Timberwolves (current), Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic
Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
Size: 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
Weight: 220 lb (100 kg)

Playing style

Joe Ingles has carved out a successful NBA career as a versatile wing player with exceptional shooting ability. His 6'8" frame allows him to play both small forward and shooting guard positions effectively. Ingles' greatest strength lies in his three-point shooting, where he has consistently been one of the league's most accurate marksmen. His career three-point percentage of over 40% places him among the elite shooters in NBA history.

Beyond his shooting prowess, Ingles is known for his high basketball IQ and playmaking skills. He excels in pick-and-roll situations, using his vision and passing ability to create opportunities for teammates. Defensively, while not the most athletic player, Ingles uses his length and positioning to disrupt opponents and contribute to team defence.

Career

Joe Ingles' professional career began in his home country of Australia, playing for the South Dragons in the National Basketball League (NBL) from 2006 to 2009. He quickly established himself as one of the league's top young talents, winning Rookie of the Year in his debut season and helping lead the Dragons to an NBL championship in 2009.

Following his success in the NBL, Ingles took his talents to Europe, playing for CB Granada in Spain before joining FC Barcelona in 2010. With Barcelona, he won two Spanish League championships and gained valuable experience in high-level European basketball. In 2013, Ingles signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he reached the pinnacle of European basketball by winning the EuroLeague championship in 2014.

Ingles' NBA journey began in 2014 when he signed with the Utah Jazz after a brief preseason stint with the Los Angeles Clippers. Initially seen as a role player, Ingles steadily improved his game and became an integral part of the Jazz rotation. His breakthrough came in the 2016-17 season when he established himself as one of the league's top three-point shooters.

During his eight seasons with the Jazz, Ingles became a fan favourite and team leader. He set the franchise record for three-pointers made and was a key contributor to multiple playoff runs. After a brief stint with the Milwaukee Bucks and Orlando Magic, Ingles joined the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024, where he continues to provide veteran leadership and sharp shooting.

Five Fast Facts

1. Ingles is the first player in Utah Jazz history to make 200 three-pointers in a single season.
2. He played Australian rules football and cricket in his youth before focusing solely on basketball.
3. Ingles and his wife, Renae, are parents to twins, one of whom has autism, leading them to become advocates for autism awareness.
4. He has represented Australia in three Olympic Games (2008, 2012, 2020), winning a bronze medal in Tokyo.
5. Ingles briefly held the NBA record for the highest three-point percentage in a single season (44.1% in 2016-17).

Career Highlights Timeline

‍2006: Signed with South Dragons in NBL, won Rookie of the Year
‍2009: Won NBL championship with South Dragons
‍2010: Joined FC Barcelona
‍2014: Won EuroLeague championship with Maccabi Tel Aviv
‍2014: Signed with Utah Jazz, beginning his NBA career
‍2018: Set Utah Jazz single-season record for three-pointers made (204)
‍2021: Became Utah Jazz all-time leader in three-pointers made
‍2022: Traded to Portland Trail Blazers, signed with Milwaukee Bucks
‍2023: Signed with Orlando Magic
2024: Played for the Australian Boomers at the Olympic Games in Paris
‍2024: Joined Minnesota Timberwolves

Joe Ingles' basketball journey is a testament to his perseverance and skill development. From his beginnings in the Australian NBL to becoming a key player in the NBA, Ingles has consistently improved his game and adapted to new challenges. His sharp-shooting ability, particularly from three-point range, has made him a valuable asset to every team he's played for.

Beyond his on-court contributions, Ingles' impact extends to his leadership and community involvement. His advocacy for autism awareness, inspired by his personal experiences, showcases the positive influence athletes can have off the court. As he continues his NBA career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Ingles remains a respected veteran presence and a model of consistency and professionalism in the league.