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After some dominant performances in the Olympics Patty Mills has embraced his expanded role in the San Antonio offense, seeing his stats increase in every major category.
With ageing point guard Tony Parker getting close to retirement it may not be long before Patty is unleashed in a starting role for the Spurs.
It was clear to all who tuned in to the Olympic coverage that Mills was a step above his Boomers teammates, as he more than held his own against the best pros from around the globe.
Under the tutelage of five-time Championship Coach Greg Popovich, Patty has blossomed into a well rounded scoring machine who can it light it up from outside or use his rare speed to cut drive through the defence.
Having already won a championship in 2014, Mills is putting together a strong case to be considered the greatest Aussie basketballer of all time. After being an afterthought in the 2009 NBA Draft (he was the sixth last selection) Patty has worked incredibly hard to compete against the best athletes in the world.
Now the hard work is paying off for the boy from Canberra.
Some may argue that Luc Longley’s three championships – which were largely won on Michael Jordan’s shoulders – and Andrew Bogut’s No. 1 draft placing and consistent career trump Mills’ achievements. However, Mills certainly has a case.
When all is said and done I think we will look back and call Patty the greatest of them all – that is, at least until Ben Simmons retires.
Who do you think is the greatest Australian basketballer of all time?
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