JaVale McGee most recently played in the NBA during the 2023-24 season when he was a member of the Sacramento Kings.
He had averages of 4.0 points and 2.7 rebounds per contest while shooting 57.8% from the field in 46 games.
This week, the news was announced that McGee will be joining a team in the NBL.
Via ESPN’s Olgun Uluc: “JaVale McGee has agreed to a one-year deal with the Illawarra Hawks, sources told ESPN. The 7-foot centre joins the defending NBL champions following a 16-year NBA career.”
JaVale McGee has agreed to a one-year deal with the Illawarra Hawks, sources told ESPN. The 7-foot centre joins the defending NBL champions following a 16-year NBA career.
— Olgun Uluc (@OlgunUluc) August 1, 2025
Many NBA fans reacted to the news on social media (h/t Legion Hoops).
@7ixers: “Shaq lowkey ruined his reputation like a hater he wasn’t even that bad”
@RealRemyWong: “He’s good for a couple blocks per game but that’s about it”
@kienobifilms: “He’s not just bringing rebounds… he’s bringing personality.”
@Its_RianM: “JaVale was not a bad player.”
@2kLouie: “3 NBA rings & an Olympic gold medal 100% qualifies you for the basketball HOF. Yao Ming has none of that, I wanna see JaVale in the hall!”
@WrldCade: “Bring all the washed nba players to Australia where we’ll actually enjoy and welcome them, unlike the nba”
@AwobajoS: “Good for him to experience another culture while balling out and make money”
McGee played 16 seasons in the NBA.
He won three NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors.
His career averages were 7.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per contest while shooting 57.8% from the field in 909 games.