Nine Australians to Compete in 2026-27 NBA Season
Australia remains the third-most represented nation in the NBA league despite Ben Simmons being sidelined for the upcoming campaign.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Basketball
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Nine Australians are set to play in the 2026-27 NBA season as the country maintains its position as the third-most represented nation behind France and Canada. Ben Simmons will miss the entire season due to an Achilles rupture.
Why it matters
The continued presence of nine Australians in the league highlights the nation's growing influence on international basketball talent. This diverse cohort includes veterans and high-level draft picks set to make an impact across various teams.
Australia ranks behind France with 17 players and Canada with 16. Josh Giddey enters the season with a career average of 17 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game, alongside 30 career triple-doubles.
The players
Ben Simmons
He is an Australian professional basketball player currently sidelined for the season with an Achilles rupture.
Josh Giddey
He is a prominent Australian basketball player known for his high volume of career triple-doubles.
Tiago Splitter
He is the new head coach of the Chicago Bulls, replacing Billy Donovan.
Caleb Wilson
He is a top-tier basketball prospect selected as the No. 4 pick in the NBA draft.
Matisse Thybulle
He is an Australian professional basketball player who has joined the Los Angeles Lakers for the upcoming season.
The details
Matisse Thybulle has joined the Los Angeles Lakers roster, while Tiago Splitter has been named head coach of the Chicago Bulls following their 31-51 record last season. Meanwhile, young talent continues to emerge with No. 4 draft pick Caleb Wilson and the 221cm tall prospect Rocco Zikarsky making headlines.
Timeline
The 2026-27 season marks the upcoming NBA campaign for the nine featured Australians.
Season Trajectory
The 2026-27 season sees a shift in the Australian contingent as veteran presence is complemented by high-draft picks like Caleb Wilson. This transition balances the loss of Ben Simmons with the integration of players like Matisse Thybulle into new team systems.
Fantasy basketball managers should note that Matisse Thybulle is expected to play a consistent role in the Los Angeles Lakers regular bench rotation. Additionally, the Chicago Bulls will be looking to improve upon their 31-51 record under the leadership of new head coach Tiago Splitter.
The takeaway
The depth of Australian talent ensures that the nation remains a major contributor to the global game despite high-profile injuries. Fans should monitor the developmental progress of prospects like Caleb Wilson throughout the long regular season.
Further reading
For more information on the season, explore our Australia Basketball coverage.
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