Well, here’s a plot twist no one saw coming: JaVale McGee is heading to Australia. Yep, the three-time NBA champion has agreed to a one-year deal with the Illawarra Hawks, according to ESPN. From L.O.B. City to the land down under, McGee’s basketball passport just got another stamp. After his latest stint in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings in 2023, McGee is ready to get back on the court for some meaningful basketball.
The 7-foot big man isn’t just showing up for a paycheck, either. JaVale McGee brings 16 years of NBA experience and a trophy case with three shiny rings, two from his time with the Golden State Warriors and one from his stint with the Los Angeles Lakers. And now? He’s teaming up with head coach Justin Tatum and a Hawks squad that’s looking to defend their NBL title.
This move isn’t just a win for Illawarra, it’s a statement. At 37, Javale McGee still has gas in the tank. Just ask anyone who watched him ball out for Vaqueros de Bayamon in Puerto Rico. In his most recent gig, he put up a strong 17.1 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. That’s not some washed-up veteran looking for a retirement tour. That’s production. NBL fans have also shown their support online. “I’m now a Hawks fan,” wrote one user.
JaVale McGee Signs With Illawarra Hawks
The timing couldn’t be better either. The Hawks are currently missing starting center Sam Froling, who’s working his way back from an Achilles injury. McGee’s arrival adds much-needed size and experience to the frontcourt while Froling recovers. JaVale McGee’s most recent NBA gig in Sacramento could have also been a deciding factor.
Let’s not forget, McGee was never just a tall body in the paint. The guy was known for his elite athleticism throughout the NBA, a human highlight reel who could throw down monster dunks, swat shots into the stands, and occasionally give Shaqtin’ a Fool something to talk about. But don’t let the blooper reels fool you. This is a legit Olympic gold medalist who helped Team USA bring home the gold at the 2020 Tokyo Games.
He’s also had flashes of dominance during his NBA run. His best statistical season came with the Washington Wizards back in 2011-12, where he averaged 11.9 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. Solid numbers for a guy who’s spent much of his career in supporting roles.
McGee Joins A Good Situation Overseas
Now, JaVale McGee joins a Hawks team that’s already stacked with names like Tyler Harvey, Will Hickey, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, Daniel Grida, Todd Blanchfield, Mason Peatling, and the Froling brothers, Sam and Harry. With the 2025-26 NBL season approaching, fans can expect fireworks.
One thing’s for sure: this isn’t just a headline signing. McGee’s presence in the NBL is a major get for the league’s global reputation. A player with his resume brings not only skill, but also star power, experience, and locker room leadership.
So, Aussies, get ready for some lob passes, rim-rocking dunks, and classic JaVale McGee energy. The big man from Flint, Michigan, is about to make Illawarra his new home, and NBL defenders should probably start watching some Sacramento Kings film from a few years back.
