From the Melbourne University Basketball Club to the NBA
By Phina Newton; 11th October
In what is a first for the Melbourne University Basketball Club, a Black Angel was drafted to the NBA! You might remember Johnny Furphy, the 17-year-old sensation from our 2022 Division One Men’s BigV season.
During that season, a baby-faced Johnny caught the eye of the whole club with his athletic dunks and big cheesy grin. Playing alongside his older brother Joe, the Furphys soon became fan favourites. The two were key to the success of our Men’s side and their elevation to Championship Men – another first for the club.
Johnny’s time with MUBC was cut short due to being offered a scholarship to Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence at the Australian Institute of Sport (a huge accomplishment). After his stint at the AIS and training with NBL teams, Johnny then accepted a scholarship to play Division One basketball at Kansas University – one of the best basketball teams in the country. He soon became another fan favourite, but this time it was for the Jayhawks’ community.
It was clear to all that Furphy fandom was growing quickly, and now globally, so after seeking advice from trusted professionals, Johnny decided to finish up at Kansas after just one year… and instead elected to opt for the NBA draft.
For those who know Johnny, there was no doubt that he would be drafted. After waiting a little longer than anticipated, he was drafted by the Indiana Pacers at pick #35.
We are so proud to have known Johnny and to see him have so much success! We hope the Pacers know how lucky they are, not only for the player but the person who is joining their club.
Read more about Johnny and the basketball club's latest news here.