Australian basketball icon Patty Mills is set to make a return to professional play, signing with Spanish club La Laguna Tenerife for the remainder of the current season. The veteran guard, aged 37, brings a wealth of experience to the Liga ACB and FIBA Basketball Champions League outfit.
Mills was last seen on NBA courts during the 2024-25 season, where he participated in 12 games for the Los Angeles Clippers. This stint followed a mid-season trade from the Utah Jazz, marking the latest chapter in a distinguished NBA career.
A New Chapter in Spain
La Laguna Tenerife currently holds a respectable eighth position in the Liga ACB standings with a 12-9 win-loss record. Mills’ arrival is expected to bolster their roster as they compete on both domestic and European fronts. His leadership and clutch shooting ability have been hallmarks of his career, and Tenerife will undoubtedly be looking to leverage these qualities in their upcoming fixtures.
Beyond the NBA: A Brief Hiatus and New Roles
Having remained unsigned for the current season prior to this Spanish venture, Mills had been involved with the University of Hawaiʻi men’s basketball team in a General Manager capacity. This period provided him with a different perspective on the game, away from the direct demands of playing. His foray into management hinted at a potential future pathway, but the allure of the court proved too strong to resist.
A Storied NBA Journey
Mills’ career in the National Basketball Association spans an impressive 16 seasons. During this time, he represented a host of prominent franchises, including the Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, and the Los Angeles Clippers. His longevity and consistent performance in one of the world’s most competitive basketball leagues are a testament to his dedication and skill.
The pinnacle of his NBA achievements came in 2014 when he was a key member of the San Antonio Spurs team that clinched the NBA Championship. His contributions were vital to the Spurs’ championship run, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
Patty Mills: NBA Career Statistics
Over his 16 seasons in the NBA, Patty Mills played in a remarkable 1,020 games, comprising 921 regular season appearances and 99 playoff games. His career averages reflect a reliable and impactful player:
Regular Season Averages:
- Points Per Game: 8.7
- Assists Per Game: 2.2
- Rebounds Per Game: 1.6
- Steals Per Game: 0.6
- Field Goal Percentage: 43%
- Three-Point Percentage: 38.5%
- Free Throw Percentage: 86.7%
Playoff Averages:
- Points Per Game: 6.6
- Assists Per Game: 1.6
- Rebounds Per Game: 1.4
- Steals Per Game: 0.5
- Field Goal Percentage: 43%
- Three-Point Percentage: 38.2%
- Free Throw Percentage: 79.7%
Mills’ move to La Laguna Tenerife signifies his continued passion for the sport and his desire to contribute at a high level. Basketball fans in Spain and across Europe will be keen to witness the veteran point guard in action once again.
