17
Jan
Aussies in the NBA
Furphy +6 in 29 mins as Pacers run up Pelicans
Australian Johnny Furphy #12 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on January 17, 2026 (AEDT) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Photo: by Pepper Robinson/NBAE via Getty Images)
Josh Giddey nears return for Chicago, Johnny Furphy starts for Indiana, Joe Ingles DNPs.
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NBA Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ Brooklyn Nets
Australian Josh Giddey is potentially just days away from a return for the Chicago Bulls. Bulls reporter Drew Stephens reported last Thursday: "(Bulls head coach) Billy Donovan said Josh Giddey has progressed 'really, really well' in his recovery from a left hamstring strain to the point where he’s been cleared to ramp up. Donovan speculated that process would take a week, barring setbacks."
It means the 23-year-old point guard could return against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday, January 19, the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, January 21 or come back against Joe Ingles Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, January 23.
NBA Box Score: New Orleans Pelicans 119 Indiana Pacers 127
Indiana held off New Orleans at home with a balanced, high-efficiency performance, winning three of the four quarters and generating enough separation through shot-making and ball movement to withstand the Pelicans’ pressure. The Pacers shot 51% from the field, assisted on 37 baskets, and repeatedly punished defensive lapses to maintain control despite New Orleans staying within reach across all four periods.
For Indiana, Australian Johnny Furphy started on the wing and delivered a composed, low-usage contribution. Furphy logged 29 minutes, finishing with 7 points on 3-of-8 shooting, including 1-of-4 from three, along with 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block, posting a +6.
The Pacers were led by Jay Huff’s 29 points on 13-of-17 shooting, while Pascal Siakam added 27 points and Andrew Nembhard controlled the game with 19 points and 10 assists. New Orleans received strong nights from Zion Williamson (27 points) and Trey Murphy III (22), but Indiana’s efficiency and depth proved decisive late as the Pacers closed the game with composure.
NBA Box Score: Minnesota Timberwolves 105 Houston Rockets 110
Australian Joe Ingles was a DNP-coach's decision.
NBA Box Score: Cleveland Cavaliers 117, Philadelphia 76ers 115 (Final)
Cleveland edged Philadelphia in a tight road finish, closing the game with a 33–24 fourth quarter to overturn a slim three-quarter-time deficit and escape with a two-point win. The Cavaliers shot 52% from the field and 50% from three, doing just enough late to offset strong individual performances from the 76ers’ core.
Off the bench, Australian guard Tyrese Proctor delivered a sharp, efficient stint in a low-minute role. Proctor played 11 minutes, scoring 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including 3-of-5 from three, providing instant perimeter offence during Cleveland’s rotation minutes. His scoring punch helped stabilise the Cavaliers offensively when the starters sat, keeping pressure on Philadelphia’s defence.
Cleveland was led by a dominant 39-point performance from Jaylon Tyson, while Donovan Mitchell contributed 13 points and 12 assists. For Philadelphia, Joel Embiid finished with 33 points, and Tyrese Maxey added 22, but the 76ers were unable to generate consistent stops late as Cleveland executed cleanly down the stretch.
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