Joe Ingles Announces Two-Year Deal to Rejoin Melbourne United
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Veteran forward Joe Ingles confirmed Saturday he will leave the NBA to sign a two-year contract with Melbourne United, returning to Australia’s National Basketball League for the 2026-27 season.
The 38-year-old Adelaide native has logged more than 800 NBA games over 12 seasons, most recently helping the Minnesota Timberwolves reach the Western Conference semifinals. Ingles began his professional career with the now-defunct South Dragons in 2006 and captured an NBL championship before the club folded three years later.
“Coming home to Melbourne feels incredibly special,” Ingles said. “To return to where my professional career began almost 20 years ago is something I don’t take for granted.”
Ingles will relocate with his wife, Renae, and their three children. He noted the move allows the family to be closer to relatives and friends after an extended stint overseas.
The 6-8 forward is one of Australia’s most accomplished players, appearing in five Olympics, four FIBA World Cups and eight NBA postseason campaigns. He helped the Boomers secure a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021 and also claimed a EuroLeague title during his time in Europe.
Melbourne United is reshaping its roster following the exit of longtime head coach Dean Vickerman. Ingles joins fellow Boomers veteran Chris Goulding along with Shea Ili, Sam Waardenburg, Fabijan Krslovic, Kyle Bowen and Dash Daniels. Three import places remain open.
“I still love competing, I still love the game, and I believe I can genuinely help this group win,” Ingles said. “At this stage of my career, it’s not about individual achievements. It’s about impact, leadership and chasing something meaningful.”
Goulding welcomed the signing, calling Ingles’ decision-making, leadership and outside shooting “a perfect fit” for United’s style. “It won’t be long until he’s hitting big shots in front of a packed-out John Cain Arena crowd,” Goulding added.
Source: ESPN
