Australian players Josh Giddey, Ben Simmons, and Dyson Daniels all kicked off their seasons as part of the NBA’s Thursday lineup (all times AEDT).
On the second day of the NBA schedule, Giddey debuted for the Chicago Bulls, stepping in as the new starting point guard against the New Orleans Pelicans.
This marked Giddey’s first game after being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder during the off-season, as he aims to assume a greater role with the Bulls in this new chapter.
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Josh Green, however, was unable to appear for the Charlotte Hornets against the Houston Rockets due to an Achilles injury.
Other notable matchups on Thursday featured the Milwaukee Bucks facing off against the Philadelphia 76ers; however, Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Khris Middleton were all sidelined. The Orlando Magic also played against the Miami Heat.
The Golden State Warriors, who were up against the Portland Trail Blazers, and the Phoenix Suns, competing against the LA Clippers, were scheduled to play later in the evening.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on today’s NBA action!
We have a full NBA schedule on Thursday.Source: FOX SPORTS
GIDDEY MAKES HIS BULLS DEBUT AS INGRAM DELIVERS A STATEMENT PERFORMANCE
Josh Giddey suited up for the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, contributing to a 123-111 defeat against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center.
In his 30 minutes on the floor, Giddey recorded 14 points, shooting 5-of-10, along with five rebounds and three assists. However, he struggled to find his rhythm playing alongside Zach LaVine and Coby White as he acclimates to his new surroundings.
The Australian faced significant jeering from Pelicans fans during the game, expressing post-match that he was “surprised” by the harsh reception and stated it “threw my teammates off.”
Brandon Ingram shone brightly, leading the Pelicans to a comfortable win.
Amidst trade rumors during the off-season, Ingram delivered a standout performance, racking up a game-high 33 points on 13-of-23 shooting, including three three-pointers, while also notching seven rebounds, two steals, and a block.
Despite expectations that Ingram might play a lesser role as a potential trade candidate this season, he made it clear on Thursday that he remains a crucial part of the team, especially with Zion Williamson (illness) and Trey Murphy (hamstring) absent, allowing for more opportunities.
Additionally, the Pelicans faced another setback as Dejounte Murray sustained a fractured hand, which will keep the star guard sidelined. Murray had a notable debut with 14 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists.
Meanwhile, LaVine, in his first game since late January, reminded everyone of his exceptional skills.
LaVine led his team with a standout performance, scoring 27 points on 10-of-17 shooting, including five three-pointers.
In particular, LaVine excelled in the first half, contributing 19 points along with all five of his triples, marking an impressive comeback after a 2023/24 season plagued by injuries.
Lonzo Ball made his long-awaited NBA return after more than 1,000 days away due to a left knee issue that required three surgeries, finishing with five points and four assists in 13 minutes of play.
New Orleans took control in the third quarter with a 36-25 run, fueled by Ingram, who scored six points, and CJ McCollum, who added 10 points, ultimately tipping the scales in their favor.
Thus, the Bulls experienced a rocky start in this new era as they strive to discover their identity. Their subsequent game is scheduled against Milwaukee on Saturday.
DYSON OUTSHINES SIMMONS IN AUSSIE CLASH
In a thrilling matchup, Brooklyn showcased the full range of Ben Simmons’ abilities as Dyson Daniels quickly endeared himself to Atlanta fans, helping the Hawks secure a 120-116 victory over the Nets on Thursday.
Simmons started strong, reminding everyone why he is a three-time All-Star with a triple-double watch in his first game back after being sidelined by a lower back injury since February.
However, as the third quarter began, he slipped back into some less favorable behaviors, resulting in turnovers and unnecessary fouls, which contributed to the Nets falling short despite late-game heroics from Cam Thomas.
In contrast, Daniels entered the season with aspirations of making the First Team All-Defence, and his performance on Thursday certainly puts him in contention.
You can find our complete recap of the Nets vs. Hawks game, including Simmons and Daniels’ performances, here.
Claxton EJECTED after foul on Daniels | 00:44
Ben Simmons impressed for the Hawks. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
BUCKS SMASH DEPLETED SIXERS AMID EMBIID PROBE
Damian Lillard spearheaded the Milwaukee Bucks to a commanding 122-109 victory over the undermanned Philadelphia 76ers in both teams’ season openers.
Lillard recorded a game-high 30 points with a shooting line of 9-of-19, alongside six three-pointers, nine rebounds, and six assists.
Giannis Antetokounmpo also made an impact, contributing 25 points on 8-of-18 shooting, coupled with 14 rebounds and seven assists, as the Bucks cruised past a Sixers team lacking Joel Embiid and Paul George.
This matchup followed reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania indicating that the NBA is likely to investigate the Sixers regarding Embiid’s participation, as he will miss the initial week of the season due to a knee issue.
Additionally, Embiid missed the entire preseason due to management of a left knee injury.
LeBron & Bronny make NBA history | 00:39
According to the player participation policy, the NBA may scrutinize any team with a star player missing a nationally televised game, like Thursday’s, which aired on ESPN Australia.
Milwaukee opened up a double-digit lead late in the second quarter, aided by back-to-back threes from Taurean Prince, stepping in for Khris Middleton, and followed by a three from Lillard.
Doc Rivers’ team established a lead as large as 20 points during the third quarter, driven by a barrage of threes—four from Lillard and three more assisted—effectively closing the door on Philly in their own arena.
PAOLO GOES OFF AS MAGIC THUMP HEAT
Paolo Banchero dominated the game with 33 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Orlando Magic to a resounding 116-97 victory over their crosstown rivals, the Miami Heat.
Banchero started his third season with a bang, shooting 12-of-24 from the field and converting 5-of-6 from the free-throw line.
the line with four triples and finishing with a +42 plus/minus.
After a closely contested first half, the Magic surged ahead with a dominant 39-18 third quarter, spearheaded by Banhero’s 12 points, allowing the visitors to quickly establish a 25-point lead.
Panchero’s running mate, Franz Wagner, contributed 23 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope struggled in his Orlando debut, going 0-of-5 from the field.
Miami’s performance was disappointing, with Jimmy Butler scoring only three points on 1-of-8 shooting and Bam Adebayo managing nine points on 1-of-5 shooting.
HORNETS UPSET ROCKETS
Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 25 points, 18 rebounds, five assists, and four steals, but LaMelo Ball stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, scoring 34 points while adding eight rebounds and 11 assists, as the Charlotte Hornets triumphed over the Houston Rockets 110-105.
The Rockets controlled the game in the first half, heading into halftime with a 60-49 lead, thanks to Sengun’s impressive 19 points and 13 rebounds.
However, Charlotte rallied in the second half, managing to contain Sengun while Ball took charge. The Hornets launched a 10-0 run late in the third quarter and continued into the fourth, seizing the lead.
Jalen Green, Houston’s leading scorer with 28 points, erupted for five quick points late in the fourth to even the score, but Grant Williams hit a pivotal three-pointer with 40 seconds left, and Ball secured the win with a pair of free throws.
This marked Ball’s first regular season appearance since January 26, as his 2023/24 season was significantly hindered by an ankle injury.
SUNS OUTLAST CLIPPERS IN OT
The Phoenix Suns triumphed over the Clippers 116-113 in a thrilling overtime contest that spoiled Los Angeles’ debut at the Intuit Dome.
Kevin Durant led all starters for the Suns with 25 points, including a critical game-tying jumper with 21 seconds remaining in regulation to send the game to overtime, while Bradley Beal added 24 points.
James Harden had an impressive outing with 29 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists but missed a free throw that could have pushed the game into a second overtime.
After Jusuf Nurkic’s free throws gave Phoenix a three-point advantage, the Clippers had a final opportunity to extend the game, but a turnover at midcourt sealed the victory for the visitors in Mike Budenholzer’s debut as head coach.
PACERS TOP PISTONS
A new season brought back familiar frustrations for the Detroit Pistons, who held an eight-point lead entering the fourth quarter against Indiana, only to see the Pacers stage a comeback for a 115-109 win.
Myles Turner scored 20 points, and Bennedict Mathurin shone by scoring 14 of his 19 points in the final quarter, allowing the Pacers to outscore the Pistons 33-19 and gain control of the game.
This game marked a successful return for Mathurin, whose 2023-24 season had been cut short due to a shoulder injury that required surgery in March.
“Taking a seven-month break from the game made me appreciate how blessed I am,” Mathurin expressed. “I’m just really thrilled we secured the win tonight.”
Pascal Siakam contributed 19 points, while Tyrese Haliburton scored 15 for Indiana, including a three-pointer that extended the Pacers’ lead to 113-107 with 20.8 seconds on the clock.
Haliburton, who celebrated with a dance, also recorded five rebounds, three steals, and two blocked shots for the Pacers, who were eliminated by eventual champions Boston in last season’s Eastern Conference finals.
The Pistons aim to improve upon last season’s league-worst 14-68 record. However, new coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s tenure began with another loss.
Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 28 points and eight assists, and the team had a 12-point lead early in the third quarter.
Jaden Ivey added 17 points, and free agent signing Tobias Harris chipped in 13, as six Detroit players scored in double figures in the defeat.
“I thought our guys performed admirably; they really gave their all,” Bickerstaff noted.
— AFP
ALL RESULTS
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PACERS 115 PISTONS 109
CAVALIERS 136 RAPTORS 106
BUCKS 124 76ERS 109
MAGIC 116 HEAT 97
NETS 116 HAWKS 120
BULLS 111 PELICANS 123
HORNETS 110 ROCKETS 105
GRIZZLIES 126 JAZZ 124
WARRIORS 139 TRAIL BLAZERS 104
SUNS 116 CLIPPERS 113 (OT)
Aussie Stars Shine in NBA Season Debuts: Giddey, Simmons, and Daniels Take the Court
The Rise of Australian Basketball Talent
Australia has been making waves in the basketball world, particularly in the NBA. With standout players like Josh Giddey, Ben Simmons, and Dyson Daniels stepping into the spotlight, Aussie stars are proving that they can hold their own on the global stage. Their season debuts are not just games; they are statements that highlight the depth of talent coming from Down Under.
Josh Giddey: A Playmaker’s Showcase
Josh Giddey, the young guard from the Oklahoma City Thunder, is known for his exceptional vision and playmaking abilities. In his recent season debut, Giddey demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the most promising talents in the league.
Performance Highlights
- Points Scored: 22
- Assists: 10
- Rebounds: 8
- Shooting Percentage: 50%
Giddey’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates was on full display, showcasing his growth from last season. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a valuable asset for the Thunder.
Giddey’s Impact on the Game
Giddey’s performance not only boosts his confidence but also sets the tone for the Thunder’s season. With his playmaking abilities, he can turn any game into an offensive showcase. The chemistry he builds with teammates can significantly enhance team dynamics.
Ben Simmons: Back and Better Than Ever
After a challenging previous season, Ben Simmons made a powerful return to the court with the Brooklyn Nets. Known for his versatile skill set and defensive prowess, Simmons is eager to prove that he can still be a key player in the league.
Performance Highlights
- Points Scored: 15
- Assists: 8
- Rebounds: 6
- Steals: 3
Defensive Excellence
Simmons’ defensive skills were particularly evident in this game. He effectively guarded multiple positions, showcasing the versatility that has made him a former All-Star. His capability to disrupt opposing offenses while contributing offensively can make the Nets a formidable team this season.
Dyson Daniels: The Rising Star
Dyson Daniels of the New Orleans Pelicans is another Australian talent who has been turning heads in the NBA. As a rookie, his season debut was highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Performance Highlights
- Points Scored: 12
- Assists: 5
- Rebounds: 4
- Three-Point Shooting: 40%
Growth and Development
Daniels displayed a mature game for a rookie, contributing both offensively and defensively. His shooting efficiency and ability to facilitate plays indicate a bright future in the league. As he gains experience, his contributions to the Pelicans can become even more significant.
Comparative Analysis of Aussie Stars’ Debuts
| Player | Points | Assists | Rebounds | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Giddey | 22 | 10 | 8 | Oklahoma City Thunder |
| Ben Simmons | 15 | 8 | 6 | Brooklyn Nets |
| Dyson Daniels | 12 | 5 | 4 | New Orleans Pelicans |
Benefits of Australian Players in the NBA
Aussie players bring a unique skill set to the NBA, offering several benefits to their teams:
- High Basketball IQ: Australian players often possess a deep understanding of the game, contributing to strategic plays.
- Versatility: Players like Simmons and Giddey can play multiple positions, providing flexibility in team line-ups.
- Team Spirit: Aussie players often emphasize teamwork, which can enhance team chemistry and performance.
First-Hand Experiences from the Players
Insights from the players themselves add depth to their journeys:
- Josh Giddey: “I focus on being a playmaker and making my teammates better. That’s what helps our team succeed.”
- Ben Simmons: “I’ve worked hard to return to my best form. I’m excited to show everyone what I can do this season.”
- Dyson Daniels: “Playing in the NBA has been a dream come true. I’m learning every day and can’t wait to grow with my team.”
Case Studies: Australian Players Making Their Mark
Several previous Australian players have paved the way for current stars:
- Andrew Bogut: The first Australian to be selected first overall in the NBA Draft, Bogut’s defensive skills and rebounding paved the way for future generations.
- Patti Mills: Known for his clutch shooting, Mills has become a key player for the Australian national team and has made his mark in the NBA.
- Matthew Dellavedova: A crucial player for the Cleveland Cavaliers during their 2016 championship run, Dellavedova showcased the impact Aussie players can have in high-pressure situations.
Tips for Aspiring Australian Basketball Players
If you’re an aspiring basketball player from Australia, here are some practical tips to improve your game:
- Work on Your Fundamentals: Focus on shooting, dribbling, and passing techniques.
- Play Against Stronger Competition: Challenge yourself by playing against better players to improve your skills.
- Watch and Learn: Study the games of top players like Giddey and Simmons to learn from their techniques and strategies.
- Stay Mentally Tough: Develop resilience and a positive mindset to overcome challenges and setbacks.
