A New Chapter in Melbourne
Joe Ingles, the 38‑year‑old Australian forward, has announced his return to the National Basketball League after a distinguished 12‑year career in the NBA. He recently signed a two‑year contract with Melbourne United, signaling his intent to compete and help the club chase a championship.
Ingles' previous NBL tenure from 2006 to 2009 was marked by immediate impact, earning Rookie of the Year in 2007 and contributing to the 2009 championship side. His early success set the stage for a prolific professional journey.
During his NBA years, Ingles logged 810 regular‑season appearances for the Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves, becoming known for his versatile shooting and high basketball IQ.
International Experience and Motivation
A five‑time Olympian, Ingles captured a bronze medal with Australia at the 2021 Tokyo Games. He has repeatedly stated that his decision to return to the NBL is driven by a desire to compete, lead and make a tangible impact, rather than pursue financial rewards or personal fame.
Emphasizing leadership and teamwork, Ingles plans to leverage his extensive experience to mentor younger talent and guide Melbourne United toward meaningful objectives on the court.