Josh Giddey: Did The Aussie Star Play College Ball?

Did Josh Giddey ever grace the courts of college basketball? That's a question many fans have asked, especially given the rising popularity of international players in the NBA. Before diving deep, let's just put it out there: Josh Giddey, the Aussie sensation, actually skipped the US college basketball scene altogether. Instead, he chose a different path, one that saw him honing his skills professionally in his home country before making the leap to the NBA. But don't worry, we're going to explore everything about Josh's pre-NBA career, his background, and how he became the player we know and love today. So, stick around as we unpack the unique journey of Josh Giddey and understand why he didn't go the traditional college route.

Josh Giddey's Background

Before we get into the details of his career choices, let's talk about Josh Giddey's background. Born on October 10, 2002, in Melbourne, Australia, Josh grew up in a basketball family. His father, Warrick Giddey, was a long-time professional basketball player in Australia's National Basketball League (NBL), and his mother, Kim, also played basketball at the collegiate level in Australia. Growing up in such an environment, it was almost inevitable that Josh would develop a love for the game. From a young age, he showed immense potential, displaying a natural feel for the game, exceptional court vision, and a knack for making his teammates better. Unlike many young basketball prospects who dream of playing in the NCAA before entering the NBA, Josh took a different route. Instead of heading to an American college, he decided to stay in Australia and pursue a professional career in the NBL. This decision was influenced by several factors, including the opportunity to play against seasoned professionals, earn a salary, and remain closer to his family and support network. This early exposure to professional basketball significantly shaped his development, preparing him for the challenges and demands of the NBA.

NBL Career

Instead of going to college, Josh Giddey chose to play in the NBL, Australia's top professional basketball league. He joined the Adelaide 36ers as part of the NBL's Next Stars program, which is designed to provide young, high-potential players with a platform to develop their skills and gain exposure. This program has been instrumental in helping several international players make the leap to the NBA. During his time with the 36ers, Giddey quickly established himself as a standout player. He showcased his exceptional playmaking abilities, court vision, and scoring prowess, earning numerous accolades and attracting the attention of NBA scouts. In the 2020-21 NBL season, Giddey averaged 10.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. His impressive performances earned him the NBL Rookie of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of the most promising young talents in the world. Playing in the NBL provided Giddey with invaluable experience, as he faced off against seasoned professionals and learned to navigate the complexities of a pro league. This experience proved to be crucial in his development, preparing him for the challenges of the NBA and helping him make a seamless transition to the highest level of basketball. The NBL's Next Stars program provided Giddey with the perfect platform to hone his skills, gain exposure, and ultimately fulfill his dream of playing in the NBA.

NBA Draft and Career

After a successful stint in the NBL, Josh Giddey declared for the 2021 NBA Draft. His unique skillset, versatility, and high basketball IQ made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams. Many scouts and analysts praised his playmaking abilities, court vision, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. He was projected to be a lottery pick, and on draft night, the Oklahoma City Thunder selected him with the 6th overall pick. Joining the Thunder, Giddey quickly made an impact, showcasing his exceptional talent and fitting seamlessly into the team's system. In his rookie season, he averaged 12.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. Giddey's ability to create opportunities for his teammates, score in various ways, and contribute on the boards made him a valuable asset to the Thunder. His court vision and passing skills were particularly impressive, as he consistently made highlight-reel passes and set up his teammates for easy scores. As he continues to develop and refine his game, Giddey has the potential to become a perennial All-Star and a cornerstone player for the Thunder. His decision to forgo college basketball and pursue a professional career in the NBL proved to be a wise one, as it allowed him to develop his skills, gain valuable experience, and ultimately achieve his dream of playing in the NBA.

Why Not College Basketball?

So, why did Josh Giddey choose to skip college basketball altogether? There are several reasons that influenced his decision. First and foremost, the NBL's Next Stars program offered him a unique opportunity to develop his skills in a professional environment while earning a salary. This allowed him to focus solely on basketball without the distractions of academics and campus life. Additionally, playing in the NBL provided Giddey with the chance to compete against seasoned professionals, which helped him accelerate his development and prepare him for the challenges of the NBA. Another factor that likely influenced his decision was the desire to stay closer to his family and support network in Australia. Moving to the United States to play college basketball would have meant being far away from his loved ones, which could have been difficult for a young player. By staying in Australia, Giddey was able to maintain a strong support system, which undoubtedly contributed to his success. Finally, the NBL's growing reputation as a viable pathway to the NBA may have also played a role in his decision. In recent years, several international players have used the NBL as a springboard to the NBA, demonstrating that it is a legitimate alternative to college basketball. Overall, Giddey's decision to forgo college basketball was a strategic one that allowed him to maximize his development, stay close to his family, and ultimately achieve his dream of playing in the NBA.

The Rise of International Players

Josh Giddey's path is becoming increasingly common as more and more international players are choosing to bypass the traditional college route and pursue professional opportunities before entering the NBA. This trend reflects the growing globalization of basketball and the increasing recognition of international leagues as legitimate pathways to the NBA. One of the main reasons for this shift is the opportunity to earn a salary while developing their skills in a professional environment. Unlike college athletes, who are not allowed to be paid, international players can earn a living while honing their craft. This can be particularly appealing for players from disadvantaged backgrounds who may need to support their families. Additionally, playing in a professional league provides young players with the chance to compete against seasoned veterans, which can accelerate their development and prepare them for the challenges of the NBA. The NBL's Next Stars program, in particular, has been instrumental in helping international players make the leap to the NBA. By providing young, high-potential players with a platform to develop their skills and gain exposure, the program has become a valuable resource for NBA teams looking to identify and develop international talent. As the NBA continues to become more global, we can expect to see even more international players choosing to bypass college basketball and pursue professional opportunities before entering the league. This trend will likely lead to even greater diversity and talent in the NBA, making the league even more exciting and competitive.

Conclusion

So, to recap, Josh Giddey did not play college basketball. Instead, he chose to hone his skills in the NBL, becoming one of the league's brightest stars before making a seamless transition to the NBA. His journey is a testament to the evolving landscape of basketball and the increasing number of alternative pathways to the professional level. What's next for Josh? The sky's the limit! Keep an eye on this young talent as he continues to light up the NBA and make his mark on the world of basketball. Whether you're a die-hard Thunder fan or simply a basketball enthusiast, Josh Giddey is definitely a player to watch!