Title: JaVale Down Under: 3x NBA Champion McGee Signs with Illawarra Hawks in Landmark NBL Move 🇦🇺🏀
WOLLONGONG, AUSTRALIA — August 1, 2025.
In one of the most surprising and talked-about moves of the international basketball offseason, JaVale McGee, a three-time NBA champion and 16-year league veteran, has officially signed a one-year deal with the Illawarra Hawks, the reigning National Basketball League (NBL) champions of Australia.
The 7-foot center, long known for his shot-blocking, rim-rattling dunks, and larger-than-life personality, is now set to bring his unique brand of basketball to a team that’s looking to build a dynasty down under.
FROM NBA SPOTLIGHT TO NBL SHOWMAN
McGee’s resume speaks for itself. A first-round draft pick in 2008, he went on to play for 9 NBA teams, including key championship runs with:
Golden State Warriors (2017, 2018)
Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
He amassed over 900 games, averaging 7.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks across his NBA career. But beyond the stats, McGee became one of the most colorful figures in modern basketball—equally known for his athletic brilliance and viral on-court moments.
Now, at age 37, he’s choosing to write one final, unexpected chapter—not in Los Angeles, Denver, or Dallas—but in Wollongong, a coastal city south of Sydney, where the Illawarra Hawks have quietly built one of the most exciting clubs in the Southern Hemisphere.
WHY THE HAWKS?
The Illawarra Hawks made headlines earlier this year when they clinched their first NBL title in over two decades, fueled by rising stars, a rugged defensive identity, and a no-ego culture cultivated under head coach Jacob Jackomas.
Team officials confirmed that McGee’s leadership, experience, and “championship DNA” were driving reasons behind the signing. While some saw the move as a publicity stunt, insiders insist the Hawks pursued McGee for his real, on-court impact.
“He’s not here on a farewell tour,” Jackomas said in a statement. “JaVale still has gas in the tank, and we believe he’s the perfect fit to anchor our defense, mentor our young bigs, and bring a winning mentality to the locker room.”
A NEW CHALLENGE, A GLOBAL STAGE
Sources close to McGee say he was drawn to the Hawks’ pitch not just for basketball reasons—but for legacy. He reportedly wants to help grow the game internationally, mentor young players, and experience basketball through a different cultural lens.
“I’ve played at the highest level, but there’s something special about going somewhere fresh, somewhere hungry,” McGee said in a short social media teaser posted by the Hawks. “This ain’t a vacation—this is a mission.”
He’ll likely debut in the NBL Blitz preseason tournament later this month, with expectations sky-high. Australian fans, many of whom grew up watching McGee’s highlights (and bloopers) on NBA TV, are already buzzing with excitement. Jerseys with “McGee 34” have already gone on pre-order, and the Hawks’ season opener is expected to sell out within hours.
LEGACY REDEFINED
JaVale McGee’s journey has always defied conventional wisdom—from “Shaqtin’ a Fool” regular to critical NBA Finals contributor, from misunderstood journeyman to respected veteran. Now, he’s blazing a new trail—bringing NBA credibility to the NBL, much like Andrew Bogut did years before him.
And for the Hawks? They’re not just defending champions anymore. They’re global players.
From the NBA’s biggest arenas to Australia’s loudest gym, JaVale McGee is ready to fly with the Hawks. Don’t blink—history might just be dunking down under. 🇦🇺
