Andrew Bogut, one of Australia’s most decorated basketballers on the world stage, has signed a deal with the Golden State Warriors for the remainder of the 2018/19 NBA season. He previously played with the Golden State Warriors after being traded in 2012, where he won the 2015 NBA Championship. Suffice to say, he has had an incredibly illustrious career in the NBA.

Bogut was the first Australian to be the number 1 pick in the NBA Draft (2005). He was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks, where he was named in the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2006 and achieved all-league honours with the Bucks in 2010.

Bogut’s return to the NBA ensures that Australia continues to boast strong representation in the NBA.

Return to Sydney

Bogut signed a two year deal with the Sydney Kings, after being waived by the Lakers in January 2018. His career in the NBA was largely viewed as being over, as he returned home to be with his family. However, after one season with the Kings, Bogut was named the MVP and Best Defensive Player in the NBL.

Sydney Kings’ coach, Andrew Gaze, has praised Bogut for spending time in the NBL and providing guidance to younger players. Clearly, the NBA offers started rolling in for Bogut during the NBL season; however, Bogut was committed to seeing out the remainder of the season with the Kings.

What will Bogut’s role be?

Bogut has confirmed that he has spoken with Warriors coach, Steve Kerr, regarding what his role in the squad would entail. Bogut has been honest and upfront about his age and the plethora of young talent on the court with the Warriors. He has said that it’s ‘an absolute honour to go and sign there’, even if it means he doesn’t ‘play a minute’ of game time.

Before Bogut’s signing was formally announced, superstar Steph Curry admitted that he was surprised Bogut had been re-signed. Nonetheless, Curry said that he was excited at linking up again with the Aussie player, saying that the Warriors will benefit from Bogut’s existing experience with the team.