After a year away from the NBA, a former veteran center is set to continue his career in Australia.
Staying in the league for over ten years, especially as a role player, is no small feat.
But some players have managed it, and former Dallas Mavericks star JaVale McGee is one of them.
However, McGee was unable to find a team last season following a brief spell with the Sacramento Kings during the 2023–24 campaign. As a result, he is now exploring opportunities elsewhere in the basketball world.
JaVale McGee signs deal with Illawarra Hawks
At 37, it’s clear that McGee is well past his best days. He managed just 4.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game over 46 appearances with the Kings.
With no offers coming in from NBA teams, the former Golden State Warriors and LA Lakers veteran has now found a new opportunity in Australia.
The three-time NBA champion is joining the Illawarra Hawks for the upcoming season.
“Adding JaVale McGee to our program is a game-changer. His leadership, athleticism, and championship mentality will elevate our group and energise the Illawarra community.
“The signing of JaVale reinforces the club’s commitment to sustained success and global recognition,” said Hawks GM Mat Campbell (via Dallas Hoops Journal).
The former NBA veteran will be hoping to make a positive impact on his new team after playing 16 years in the league.
JaVale McGee still earning over $2.2m a year from the Dallas Mavericks
Even though McGee is no longer in the NBA, let alone with the Mavericks, one of the team’s decisions from a few years ago is still costing them money.
To put it into context, Dallas gave McGee a three-year, $17.2 million contract back in 2022. But not long after, it became clear he wasn’t going to be a fit long-term and he was waived just a year later.
Instead of paying off the contract all at once, Dallas opted to stretch his remaining salary over several years, spreading it out until the end of the 2027-28 season.
This means McGee will continue to receive over $2.2 million per year from the Mavericks through to that point.
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