10
Nov
4 min read
Aussies in the NBA: Johnny Furphy
Johnny Furphy #12 of the Indiana Pacers poses for a portrait during the 2024 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo: Monica Schipper/Getty Images
Johnny Furphy plays for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA
- Drafted 35th overall in 2024 NBA Draft, traded to Indiana Pacers on draft night
- Named to Big 12 Conference All-Freshman team at Kansas
- Versatile 6'9" wing with smooth shooting stroke and 35% three-point accuracy
Johnny Furphy is an emerging Australian talent in the NBA, known for his versatile wing play, smooth shooting, and potential as a modern NBA wing with the Indiana Pacers.
Key Details
Name: Johnny Furphy
Age: 19
Team(s): Indiana Pacers
Position: Shooting Guard
Size: 6'9" (2.06 m)
Weight: 200 lbs (91 kg)
Playing style
Johnny Furphy embodies the modern NBA wing archetype, combining size, shooting ability, and versatility. Standing at 6'9" with a smooth shooting stroke, Furphy presents a matchup challenge for opponents. His ability to score from beyond the arc, where he converted 35% of his attempts during his freshman year at Kansas, makes him a valuable floor spacer. Furphy's game is not predicated on dominating the ball, allowing him to be effective within the flow of the offence.
While possessing good explosive ability, Furphy often opts for crafty below-the-rim finishes rather than explosive dunks. This approach showcases his soft touch around the hoop and ability to absorb contact. As he continues to develop physically and refine his skills, there's potential for Furphy to utilise his athleticism more effectively, particularly in finishing above the rim.
Career
Johnny Furphy's basketball journey began in Melbourne, Australia, where he honed his skills at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy. His talent was evident early on, earning him opportunities with local teams like the Hawthorn Magic and Melbourne University in the Big V league. In 2022, Furphy took a significant step forward by joining the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Canberra, competing in the NBL1.
During his time with the CoE in 2023, Furphy demonstrated his scoring prowess, averaging 14.3 points and 5.6 rebounds across 12 games in the NBL1 season. This performance caught the attention of international scouts and paved the way for his move to the United States collegiate system.
Furphy committed to the University of Kansas, joining the Jayhawks for the 2023-2024 season. As a freshman, he quickly established himself as a key reserve wing before earning his first start on 13 January 2024 against ninth-ranked Oklahoma. His consistent performances throughout the season earned him a place on the Big 12 Conference All-Freshman team, highlighting his impact and potential.
Following his impressive freshman campaign, Furphy declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. His potential as a versatile wing with shooting ability led to him receiving a green room invite, signalling his status as a highly-regarded prospect. On draft night, Furphy was selected with the 35th overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs but was immediately traded to the Indiana Pacers.
Furphy's professional career with the Pacers is just beginning, with the Australian signing his first NBA contract on 7 July 2024. As he transitions to the professional ranks, Furphy's combination of size, shooting ability, and potential for growth make him an intriguing prospect for the Pacers' future.
Five Fast Facts
- Furphy reclassified to the 2023 class to join Kansas a year early
- He comes from an athletic family, with his father Richard having played Australian Football professionally
- Furphy's brother Joe is a professional Australian Football player, while his sister Holly plays soccer at Santa Clara University
- He measured a 6'8" wingspan and 8'8.5" standing reach at the 2024 NBA Draft Combine
- Furphy is also reportedly an excellent Australian Football and cricket player
Career Highlights Timeline
2021: Played two games for Hawthorn Magic in the Big V league
2022: Competed for Melbourne University in Big V Division One before joining the BA Centre of Excellence
2023: Averaged 14.3 points and 5.6 rebounds in 12 games for the CoE in NBL1
2023-2024: Played freshman season at University of Kansas, earning Big 12 All-Freshman team honours
2024: Selected 35th overall in NBA Draft, traded to Indiana Pacers
2024: Signed first NBA contract with Indiana Pacers on 7 July
Johnny Furphy represents the next wave of Australian talent making its mark in the NBA. His journey from Melbourne's local leagues to the Indiana Pacers showcases the global reach of basketball talent identification and development. Furphy's combination of size, shooting ability, and versatility aligns perfectly with the demands of the modern NBA game.
As Furphy embarks on his professional career with the Pacers, his potential for growth is significant. While he enters the league as a development project, his foundation of skills and physical tools provide a solid base for improvement. The coming years will be crucial for Furphy as he adapts to the rigours of the NBA, refines his game, and seeks to establish himself as a valuable contributor in the world's premier basketball league. With continued development, particularly in strength and on-ball creation, Furphy has the potential to become a impactful two-way player for the Pacers and carry the torch for Australian basketball on the global stage.
