Another Australian for the Rockets. The Texans, who already have Jock Landale in their squad, come indeed from sign Jack McVeigh in a “two-way contract”.
He is coming off his best season in his career (16.5 points and 5 rebounds on average) with the Tasmania JackJumpers, leading the team to the 2024 Australian league title, with the Finals MVP trophy in the process.
Behind, the 28-year-old has been named in Australia's 12-man squad for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Currently in Abu Dhabi with the Boomers, he scored nine points in Australia's loss to Team USA.
Originally from Queensland, he is one of the best Australian players of his generation, notably representing his country at the U19 World Championship in 2015. He then spent three seasons at the University of Nebraska (2015-2018), his best being an average of 7.5 points.
Former NBL MVPs move to NBA
The power forward later returned home to begin his professional career in the NBL. After three quiet first seasons with the Adelaide 36ers, Jack McVeigh made more of a name for himself with the JackJumpers.
He is part of a line of Australian championship finals MVPs who have secured NBA contracts following their distinction. His new teammate Jock Landale (2021) and Xavier Cooks (2022) had done the same before him.
Capable of shooting 3-pointers effectively (38% success in six seasons in Australia), he is described as a complete attacker, comfortable near the rim, at mid-range or from further away.
” He's making a name for himself. He's making a big mark. […] I think a lot of people looked at McVeigh as one of the more withdrawn players. No, he's right there. What he does in this group is elite. “, greeted his coach, Brian Goorjianbefore giving his final Olympic list.
