Josh Giddey: Look at the NBA’s Rising Superstar

Josh Giddey is one of the most exciting and multi‑talented professional basketball players in the world today. Known for his rare combination of size, playmaking ability, rebounding instincts, and improving scoring touch, Josh Giddey has captured the attention of basketball fans globally and is establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Chicago Bulls’ future. 

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Giddey has defied early expectations to become a three‑category force in the NBA, routinely posting triple‑doubles and drawing comparisons to some of the best all‑around players in the league’s history. As of the 2025‑26 season, his performances have sparked MVP discussions, driven Bulls success, and inspired a new generation of international players aiming for NBA stardom. 

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

Josh Giddey was born on October 10, 2002, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, into a family where basketball wasn’t just a pastime but a way of life. He grew up in the suburb of Yarraville, a part of Melbourne known for its strong community spirit and active sports culture. From his earliest days, Josh was surrounded by the game: both of his parents were professional basketball players in Australia. 

His father, Warrick Giddey, enjoyed a long and successful career in the National Basketball League (NBL), playing many seasons for the Melbourne Tigers, while his mother, Kim Giddey, competed in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL). Having this professional experience in the family gave Josh not just genetic talent but a deep, daily exposure to training, competition, and basketball culture from the moment he could pick up a ball.

Growing up, Josh didn’t immediately shoot to stardom — he developed his skills through regular play in local clubs and school competitions. He attended St Kevin’s College in Toorak, Melbourne, from Years 7 to 10, where he continued to refine his game while balancing academics. Even at a young age, his size, vision, and feel for the game began to set him apart from his peers. Coaches and teammates noticed early that he had a natural ability to see the floor, pass with precision, and rebound aggressively — instincts usually reserved for much older players.

At around 12 years old, Josh made a pivotal decision that would shape his future: he joined the NBA Global Academy at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra, one of the world’s premier basketball development programs. The academy gathers top international prospects and provides elite coaching, high‑intensity training, and regular competition against skilled peers from around the world. 

In Canberra, Giddey trained full‑time and attended UC Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra, blending academic studies with rigorous basketball development. This experience honed his technical skills and elevated his understanding of advanced basketball concepts like spacing, reading defenses, and orchestrating offense — tools that would later make him NBA‑ready.

Giddey’s junior achievements began to pile up quickly. In April 2019, he dominated at the Australian Under‑18 Championships, averaging about 20 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, guiding VIC Metro to the title and establishing himself as one of the country’s top young talents. Shortly afterward, in January 2020, he led the NBA Global Academy team to victory at the Torneo Junior Ciutat de L’Hospitalet in Barcelona, Spain, where he earned Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors — a significant international milestone at just 17 years old.

In early 2020, he also participated in Basketball Without Borders during NBA All‑Star Weekend in Chicago, a prestigious camp that brings together the world’s best young prospects and NBA coaches. There, he was named an all‑star of the camp, showcasing his advanced playmaking and court vision to NBA executives and scouts.

Rather than taking the traditional U.S. college route, Giddey chose to sign with the Adelaide 36ers in the NBL’s Next Stars program at age 17, facing grown men in a professional league — a decision that accelerated his readiness for the NBA and demonstrated his commitment to real‑world competition.

From his Melbourne beginnings to elite international development, Josh Giddey’s early life set the foundation for his historic rise in professional basketball. His upbringing, exposure to high‑level coaching, and early competitive experiences all combined to shape one of the most unique and promising talents in modern basketball.

Path to the NBA and Draft Night

Josh Giddey’s journey from a promising Australian teenager to an NBA draft sensation was marked by rapid development, international recognition, and bold career choices. After proving himself in junior competitions and elite international showcases, Giddey became one of the most highly regarded prospects outside the United States. 

His time at the NBA Global Academy at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and his standout performances with the Adelaide 36ers in the NBL’s Next Stars program solidified his reputation as a versatile, NBA-ready guard-forward. By the 2020–21 season, Giddey was attracting attention from scouts, analysts, and NBA executives for his rare combination of height, vision, and court awareness, all while still a teenager.

Giddey’s decision to join the Adelaide 36ers rather than pursuing college basketball in the United States was pivotal. Competing against seasoned professionals in the NBL exposed him to physical play, complex defensive schemes, and faster-paced basketball than most U.S. college programs could offer. At just 17, he averaged 10.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game, becoming one of the youngest players to log significant minutes in the league. His performance not only impressed Australian fans but also elevated his international draft stock, showcasing his ability to contribute immediately in a professional setting.

Leading up to the 2021 NBA Draft, Giddey participated in international camps and combines, where scouts could evaluate his skills firsthand. His size, ball-handling, passing ability, and court vision were repeatedly highlighted as elite for his age, while analysts noted his high basketball IQ and potential to impact multiple statistical categories. Media outlets projected him as a top-ten pick, and comparisons to established NBA point-forwards began to emerge.

On July 29, 2021, Giddey’s lifelong dream became a reality when he was selected sixth overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This pick made him one of the highest-drafted Australian players in NBA history and a cornerstone of the Thunder’s rebuilding strategy. Draft night was a moment of celebration not only for Giddey and his family but also for Australian basketball, symbolizing the growing global reach of the NBA. The Thunder immediately recognized his versatility, court vision, and leadership potential, envisioning him as a foundational piece capable of orchestrating offense, rebounding, and creating opportunities for teammates from day one.

Giddey’s draft selection was more than a personal milestone — it was the culmination of years of dedication, elite training, and international experience. It set the stage for a professional career defined by rapid adaptation, historic statistical achievements, and a growing global influence on and off the court.

Professional Career Overview

Oklahoma City Thunder Years (2021–2024)

Giddey’s early years in the NBA were spent with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he quickly became a key piece of the team’s young core. In his rookie season, he earned All‑Rookie Second Team honors and demonstrated excellent potential as a primary facilitator and rebounder at his size — a profile rare even in the NBA.

Over the next few seasons, Giddey’s game continued to evolve. Although he sometimes struggled with three‑point shooting and scoring efficiency early on, his natural ability to impact winning through rebounding and assists was evident. His ability to run the offense, find open shooters, and grab timely boards made him a favorite among Thunder fans and basketball purists who value all‑around impact.

Chicago Bulls Breakout and Contract Extension (2024–Present)

In June 2024, Giddey was traded to the Chicago Bulls, offering him a fresh start and a larger role in a historic NBA franchise. In the 2024‑25 season, he made a significant leap in performance, averaging 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game across 70 games. He became only the second Bulls player ever to average at least 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in a season — joining Michael Jordan in an exclusive club.

The Bulls were so impressed with his development that in September 2025, they signed Giddey to a four‑year, $100 million contract extension, solidifying his role as a foundational piece of the franchise’s future.

On‑Court Playing Style and Skills

Josh Giddey is often described by analysts as a “point forward” — a player with the height and physical tools of a forward but the vision and playmaking ability of a traditional point guard. Standing around 6’7″ (2.01 meters) and weighing around 214 pounds, he is able to see over defenses and make passes that would be difficult for smaller guards.

Playmaking and Vision

At the core of Giddey’s game is his elite passing ability. His court vision allows him to make creative feeds not only in transition but in half‑court sets. He often initiates offense, reads defensive rotations, and finds open teammates in motion. These skills have led to frequent triple‑double opportunities and make him a constant threat whenever he has the ball in his hands.

Rebounding Prowess

Giddey’s rebounding numbers are exceptional for a guard. His timing, strength, and awareness on the boards allow him to secure rebounds over both guards and forwards, creating additional possessions for his team and enabling fast break opportunities.

Scoring Growth

Although not traditionally viewed as a high‑volume scorer early in his career, Giddey’s offensive game has matured. His mid‑range shooting and three‑point accuracy improved significantly after his move to Chicago, culminating in a career‑high three‑point percentage and total made threes in the 2024‑25 season.

Historic Achievements and Records

Josh Giddey’s career includes several achievements that set him apart from his peers:

He became one of only a handful of NBA players to post over 1000 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists in a single season — a mark reached by legends like LeBron James and Nikola Jokić.

In the 2025‑26 season, Giddey recorded back‑to‑back triple‑doubles, the first Bulls player to do so since Michael Jordan in the 1988‑89 season, further cementing his elite all‑around status.

Fans and analysts have even sparked MVP discussions around him during strong stretches of play in the 2025‑26 season — something few expected from a young player so early in his career.

International Influence and Public Impact

As an Australian in the NBA, Giddey has become one of his country’s most visible basketball ambassadors. His success in the league has inspired many young athletes in Australia and around the world, proving that international players can become franchise cornerstones in the NBA. He is often featured in global basketball discussions and is a regular on social media highlights and fan forums.

Beyond his on‑court success, Giddey’s approachable personality and engaging playing style have made him a fan favorite among global audiences who enjoy watching intelligent, team‑first basketball.

Off‑Court Life and Anecdotes

While Giddey keeps much of his personal life private, 2025 saw him go public with his girlfriend Alyssa Paranteau on social media around Christmas, showcasing a relaxed, personable side away from the intense intensity of pro sports. This follows a period of off‑court scrutiny earlier in his career that resulted in an investigation but no charges — an episode that tested his resilience and professionalism.

A light‑hearted moment from his Bulls tenure came during a game where he hit a dramatic long‑distance buzzer‑beater, prompting an enthusiastic and memorable announcer call that became viral among fans and highlighted the entertainment value he brings to the court.

Practical Guide: How to Watch Josh Giddey Play

To experience Josh Giddey live in action, here’s a practical guide for fans:

NBA Regular Season

Giddey plays for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA’s regular season, which typically runs from October through April each year. Games are broadcast globally on various sports networks and streaming services.

TV Channels: Major national sports networks often carry Bulls games, and local regional sports networks may show more broadcasts depending on your location.

Streaming Options: Platforms that offer NBA games include official NBA League Pass, regional sports network apps, and streaming services that carry sports channels in your area.

Schedule: Bulls game times vary each week, but the NBA releases a full schedule before the season starts. Checking the official NBA schedule or team announcements will keep you updated.

Events & Appearances: Giddey occasionally participates in community events, fan meet‑ups, and charity initiatives — especially during off‑season periods. Following the Bulls’ social channels will provide details.

Playoffs

If the Bulls qualify for the NBA Playoffs, the games typically occur from mid‑April through June. Playoff matchups are higher stakes and broadcast widely, offering fans an opportunity to see Giddey compete at the highest level.

International Viewing

International fans can watch NBA action through regional sports broadcasters, official NBA international packages, and platforms specific to their countries. Checking with local broadcasters ensures you know where Bulls games are shown.

Seasonal Update: 2025–26 Highlights

The 2025–26 NBA season has been a breakout campaign for Giddey:

He has maintained All‑Star level production and been mentioned in MVP conversations due to his versatile stat lines.

Giddey’s consistency with triple‑double performances and elite all‑around numbers places him among the league’s most impactful players early in the season.

His continued evolution as a scorer, playmaker, and leader for the Bulls has basketball analysts predicting future All‑NBA honors if his performance remains strong.

FAQs

Who is Josh Giddey and what makes him special?

Josh Giddey is an Australian professional basketball player for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA, known for his unique combination of size, playmaking, rebounding, and improving scoring ability, making him one of the league’s most versatile young stars.

What teams has Josh Giddey played for in the NBA?

Giddey was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2021 and traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2024, where he has had explosive development and secured a long‑term contract extension.

How can I watch Josh Giddey’s games in my country?

NBA games featuring Giddey are broadcast globally through national sports networks, NBA League Pass, and regional sports channels, with schedules available on official NBA platforms and team announcements.

What are some of Josh Giddey’s major achievements?

He has recorded multiple triple‑doubles, joined elite statistical groups by surpassing 1000 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists in a season, and become the first Bulls player since Michael Jordan with consecutive triple‑doubles.

Is Josh Giddey considered an MVP candidate?

During strong stretches of the 2025‑26 season, Giddey’s all‑around elite performance has sparked MVP discussions among fans and analysts, reflecting his impact on the Bulls’ success.

What are Giddey’s strengths and areas for improvement?

Giddey’s key strengths are his playmaking, rebounding, and court vision, while continued improvement in scoring efficiency and three‑point consistency will enhance his overall impact.

What should fans expect from Josh Giddey’s future?

Fans can expect continued growth as a leader for the Bulls, potential All‑Star and All‑NBA honors, and a lasting influence on the global basketball stage as he enters the prime years of his career.

Final Thoughts

Josh Giddey’s journey from Melbourne to the NBA is a testament to talent, dedication, and adaptability. From his early exposure to professional basketball through his family to elite training at the NBA Global Academy and professional development in the NBL, Giddey built a foundation that prepared him to compete at the highest level. His transition to the NBA was seamless, marked by impressive rookie performances, multiple triple-doubles, and historic all-around contributions that have set him apart from his peers.

Beyond the statistics, Giddey has become a global ambassador for Australian basketball, inspiring young players worldwide to pursue their dreams while demonstrating that hard work, intelligence, and teamwork can propel talent onto the biggest stages. 

His impact extends off the court as well, with fans drawn to his approachable personality and professional maturity, making him a fan favorite and a respected figure among teammates and coaches.

As he continues his career with the Chicago Bulls, Giddey’s potential appears limitless. His versatility, leadership, and evolving skill set suggest a future filled with All-Star appearances, franchise records, and a lasting influence on the NBA. Josh Giddey is not just a rising star — he is shaping the future of basketball on a global scale.

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