If we are to single out one Aussie capable of making the jump to the NBA, Joe Ingles should be it. He’s an NBA player.
His talent and potential were always evident during his time in the NBL, but moving to Europe has seen him mature and set the tone for a transition to the best league in the world.
Watching our Olympic team in London this year, I thought Ingles was our best player. He played great defence, he rebounded, he passed the ball well. He showed a whole lot more poise and maturity in his game.
The experience of playing at such a major event and at the highest level in Europe for Barcelona means his game is at the perfect stage for an NBA move next season.
He wouldn’t just be making up the numbers, either.
I think when he gets to the NBA, people are going to be very surprised to see he can actually contribute at that level. He’s a very good defender and can be an amazing NBA player defensively.
For his size and his length, he also handles the ball well. People forget that Joe is 6’8″. With his wingspan, he’s probably like a 6’10″.
The player his size reminds me of is Toni Kukoc. If he can pick up the Kukoc jump shot – he’s not far off and he’s got the ability to do it – then he can really make it in the NBA.
But for now, he’s already an NBA level defender and a great passer, which will help him go to the next level.
While Ingles is ready to go, there are a few Australian players overseas right now who might not be too far behind him.