NBL Teams Eyeing Mangok Mathiang

Former NBA player Mangok Mathiang could be set to return to professional basketball via the NBL.

The 29-year-old Mathiang has had his career decimated by injuries, as he hasn’t played professionally since early 2020 after breaking his tibia and fibula.

After a long and gruelling rehab, Mathiang has returned to the court via NBL1 South with the Casey Cavaliers, and the NBL is in his sights.

Newscorp has mentioned Melbourne United, Perth Wildcats and the Brisbane Bullets as potential landing spots, with Mathiang saying he is open to conversations with the clubs.

“Melbourne United have always been on my side, ever since I was in college, and also Perth,” Mathiang told Newscorp.

“There are a few good things out here that have been checking in on me and just trying to see where I’m at physically and mentally, which helped me get through my rehab journey.

“They have given me the chance to think about the future and given me the faith that I can try to pick my career up and try to sign a contract coming off an injury like this.

“When the time is right, I think we’ll all have a seat and try to figure something out.”

In three games with Casey, Mathiang is averaging 20 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.

“These games were just to get the monkey off my back. My body and leg haven’t been giving me any problems, they’re holding up amazingly,” he said.

Mathiang signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets in 2017, before being released in 2018 and playing in Europe.

He believes getting back to the NBA is a legitimate goal, as is representing the Australian Boomers on the biggest stage.

“I obviously still have the hopes and dreams to still play in the NBA and I don’t think it’s too far gone,” Mathiang said.

“I still want to play in the Olympics as well.”