Isaac Humphries lands roster spot with Magic
The number of Aussies in the NBA has once again soared to new heights with today's announcement that the Orlando Magic have signed former NBL Rookie of the Year Isaac Humphries.
The former Sydney King and Kentucky alumni is coming off a strong showing for the Erie Bayhawks in the NBA G-League, as well as suiting up for the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2019 NBA Summer League.
In the 2018/19 G-League season, Humphries averaged 11.3 points per game and 7.0 rebounds per game, in 21.8 minutes per game.
The 21-year-old recently signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Magic, which ensured 'a 'one-year deal worth the minimum salary. It didn't come with any compensation protection, but could have included an optional bonus ranging from $5K to $50K.'
Humphries already has NBA experience, playing five games with the Atlanta Hawks last season, averaging 3.0 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 11.3 mpg.
He will be in a tough position in Orlando, battling a long list of big men on the squad which includes NBA All Star Nikola Vucevic alongside young stars such as Mo Bamba and Aaron Gordon.
More importantly, Humphries' closest competition for an ongoing roster spot will be against the likes of Canadian centre Khem Burch, who recently toured Australia prior to the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Orlando's pre-season continues on October 6 when the Magic face San Antonio, while their season opener is against the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 24.