The 2025–26 NBA season opens with a record number of Australians across rosters.

It's a reflection of how far the country's basketball pipeline has come, producing players who contribute in every role imaginable.

Here's how the 13 Aussies in the NBA stack up heading into the new season, based on form, opportunity, and long-term upside.

4Matisse Thybulle

Portland Trail Blazers

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Long regarded as one of the league's top defenders, Matisse Thybulle is now stepping into a new chapter of his career, one that may broaden his impact in the NBA.

After missing most of last season with an injury, Thybulle returned late in the year and quietly produced some of the best numbers of his career, shooting nearly 44% from three over 15 games while providing his trademark defensive energy.

A two-time All-Defensive Team selection and Olympic bronze medallist with the Boomers, Thybulle remains one of the league's most disruptive perimeter defenders, using his wingspan and anticipation to wreak havoc in passing lanes. But with Portland rebuilding and Thybulle on an expiring, team-friendly contract, his future feels fluid.

If he can keep combining efficient shooting with his trademark defence, playoff contenders searching for a reliable 3-and-D wing will likely take notice before the trade deadline.