Olympic Gold Medalist JaVale McGee Heads to Australia in Stunning NBL Signing
Veteran center JaVale McGee is heading to Australia, as the three-time NBA champion has agreed to a one-year deal with the reigning NBL champions, the Illawarra Hawks, according to ESPN’s Olgun Uluc.
McGee, a seasoned 16-year NBA veteran, most recently suited up for the Sacramento Kings during the 2023–24 NBA season. In a limited role, he appeared in 46 games, averaging 4.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in just 7.4 minutes per game. Despite the reduced playing time, McGee continued to showcase his trademark energy, rim protection, and veteran leadership — qualities that the Hawks will hope to benefit from as they defend their title in the Australian National Basketball League.
Throughout his NBA career, McGee has played for nine different teams, amassing career averages of 7.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game across 909 appearances, including 343 starts. His career highlights include championship runs with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018, and with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. In addition to his NBA success, McGee also secured an Olympic gold medal with Team USA at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
At 37 years old, McGee isn’t slowing down. He is currently active in Puerto Rico’s professional basketball league, playing for the Vaqueros de Bayamón, who are preparing to compete in the league’s finals beginning this Sunday. His move to the NBL marks another chapter in a well-traveled and decorated professional journey — one that continues to evolve across global courts.
