Top NBA Cards Featuring Australian Players
Australian basketball has achieved significant recognition in the NBA over the past few decades. The journey began with Luc Longley, who in 1991 became the first Australian player drafted into the league. Today, approximately 30% of NBA teams include at least one Australian player. Below, we highlight some of the most notable Australian players and their standout trading cards.
Luc Longley: The Pioneer of Australian Basketball
Luc Longley, born in Melbourne, holds a unique place in NBA history. He contributed to the Chicago Bulls’ dominance from 1996 to 1998, playing alongside Michael Jordan during their championship runs. Among Longley’s cards, the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems #18, limited to 100 copies, stands out. A PSA 6 version sold for $3,250 in May 2025.
- 1991 Skybox Luc Longley Rookie Card #519
- 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems #18 (/100)
Andrew Bogut: The First Australian #1 Draft Pick
Andrew Bogut, another Melbourne native, made history as the first Australian selected first overall in the 2005 NBA Draft. He achieved remarkable milestones, including the NBA Championship title with the Golden State Warriors in 2015.
Bogut’s top card is the 2005-06 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Rainbow Rookie (1/1), which fetched $2.7K in April 2024. Additionally, the 2012 Panini Prizm Gold Andrew Bogut #43 (/10) is a noteworthy non-rookie option that showcases his transition to the Warriors.
- 2005 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Andrew Bogut Rainbow Rookie Card #43 (1/1)
- 2012 Panini Prizm Gold Andrew Bogut #43 (/10)
Patty Mills: From Underdog to Champion
Originally drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, Patty Mills became a key player for the San Antonio Spurs, winning a championship in 2014. Not only has he excelled in the NBA, but he also ranks as the fifth-highest scorer in Olympic men’s basketball history.
Mills’ top-selling card is the 2021 Tyson Beck Exclusive “Rose Gold” Green Autograph (/30), which sold for $650 in August 2023.
- 2009 Panini Prestige Draft Picks Patty Mills Rookie Autograph #252 (/699)
- 2021 Tyson Beck Exclusive “Rose Gold” Green Autograph (/30)
Kyrie Irving: The Dual Citizen Star
Kyrie Irving, born in Melbourne, is noteworthy for his dual citizenship, representing Team USA in international play. He was the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and has building an impressive resume, including an NBA Championship in 2016 and nine All-Star selections.
Irving’s highest-selling card is the BGS Pristine Black Label 2012-13 Panini Prizm Gold Rookie card #201 (/10), which fetched an impressive $194.4K in 2021.
- 2012-13 Panini Prizm Gold Kyrie Irving Rookie Card #201 (/10)
- 2012 National Treasures Gold Kyrie Irving Rookie Patch Autograph #101 (/5)
Ben Simmons: A Rising Star’s Challenge
Ben Simmons, the third overall pick from Melbourne, was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2016 NBA Draft. His career has been marked by both achievements and challenges, including being a three-time All-Star and a league leader in steals in 2020.
In 2017, his 2016 Exquisite Autograph Rookie card (/99) sold for $22K. However, sales have since fluctuated, with a recent high of $5,989 for a 2020 Panini On The Horizon (1/1) card.
- 2016 Exquisite Collection Ben Simmons Autograph Rookie card (/99)
- 2020 Panini Ben Simmons On The Horizon Green (1/1)
The Future of Australian Talent in the NBA
The pipeline of Australian basketball talent continues to flourish. Emerging players like Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels are poised to further elevate Australia’s presence in the NBA. The impact of Australian players on the league is undeniable and continues to grow.
