Andersen calls final time-out

After 23 sensational seasons, Australian basketball legend David Andersen has called time on his career.

Andersen made his professional debut for the Wollongong Hawks in 1998 and went on to have a long and distinguished career in Europe, the NBA and with the Australian Boomers.

“It's been a very long and illustrious journey and career,” Andersen said.

“I’ve had a great time, many adventures in many parts of the world, enjoyed every step of the way and enjoyed all the relationships along the way.

“I'd love to thank my family, brothers, sisters, parents, wife and everyone that supported me along the years. To all my friends that travelled around the world to watch me play certain games, and then obviously to the fans, that's why we play the game.

“It's been a hell of a journey. I've enjoyed every moment of it.”

The two-time NBL champion and Frankston NBL1 star won’t be lost to the sport, as he will be joining the league in a new Player Liaison and Special Projects role.

“I can’t wait to get started at NBL HQ,” he said.

“The NBL is one of the best leagues in the world and is home of some of the globe’s best basketball players.

“Playing conditions in the NBL are already at a world-class level and I hope my experience and insight from a player’s perspective will make the NBL even more enticing for other players, whether local or from abroad.”

Andersen became a staple of the Boomers’ program after his debut at the 2003 Olympic Qualifying FIBA Oceania Championship. He played for his country until 2017 and participated at four Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016).

Throughout his career, Andersen won 22 championships or cups and enjoyed a stint in the NBA with the Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Hornets from 2009-2011.

Andersen’s accomplishments:

• 2x NBL champion (2018, 2021)
• 3x EuroLeague champion (2001, 2006, 2008)
• 3x Italian League champion (2001, 2004, 2012)
• 3x Italian Cup winner (2001, 2002, 2012)
• Italian Supercup winner (2011)
• Spanish League champion (2009)
• 4x Russian League champion (2005-2008)
• 3x Russian Cup winner (2005-2007)
• Turkish Cup winner (2013)
• French League champion (2016)
• All-EuroLeague First Team (2005)
• Italian League Finals MVP (2004)
• Italian Cup MVP (2012)
• Turkish Cup Final MVP (2013)
• Albert Schweitzer Tournament MVP (1998)
• 4x Olympian (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016)
• 37^th pick in 2002 NBA Draft by Atlanta Hawks