14
Jul
Aussies in the NBA
'Backyard blitz': Sibling rivalry fired Alex's dreams
Australian Alex Toohey #22 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second half of a 2025 NBA Summer League game at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 12, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Trail Blazers defeated the Warriors 106-73. Photo: Candice Ward/Getty Images
Highlights
Alex Toohey reveals how his love for basketball started in the backyard against his siblings
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Australian 2025 NBA Draftee Alex Toohey has revealed competing in the backyard against his siblings ignited his passion to play basketball.
"I started playing basketball when my older brother and sister started playing in the backyard," Toohey revealed.
"As any younger sibling does, I just wanted to join in."
Former Sydney Kings NBL Next Star Toohey, 21, was drafted by Golden State Warriors (via Phoenix) with the 52nd pick of the 2025 NBA Draft on June 26, 2025.
basketball.com.au contributor Michael Houben wrote after Toohey was drafted: "General Manager Mike Dunleavy discussed the selection of Toohey, and while he admitted he doesn’t expect Toohey to play a role as a rookie, he lauded his versatility and said that while he could be envisioned at the four, there is appeal in Toohey’s ability to play multiple positions.
"Toohey may not be a commanding scorer or athlete, but his motor and feel for the game have made him a proven winner. Sticking in the NBA is always a long shot from the second round, but it’s hard not to feel like he’s a consistent three point shot away from being able to contribute at the game’s highest level."
Toohey said he was thrilled to be drafted by the Warriors, the same team Sydney Kings assistant coach Andrew Bogut won an NBA championship with.
"I do take inspiration from Andrew Bogut. I think he's very creative in his handoffs, he's a great passer, and he has great touch," Toohey added.
"I also look at the guards that played with Steph Curry when Bogut was with the Warriors — definitely a big inspiration.
"I'm waiting for draft night with my fingers crossed, waiting for that phone call. Then when you hear it's the Warriors, you can't be anything but happy.
"I was definitely excited and I'm glad that I'm here."
Toohey is playing for the Warriors at the 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
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