Over the years, Australian athletes have made their mark across Bay Area sports, from NBA champions and MLB All-Stars to rising talent in the WNBA.
Here's a look at some of the Australian athletes who have helped strengthen the connection between Australia and the Bay Area.
Andrew Bogut | Golden State Warriors
- Melbourne native and former No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft out of the University of Utah.
- Helped the Warriors clinch the 2015 NBA Championship while anchoring the defense as a center during the early years of Golden State's dynasty.
- One of Australia's most accomplished basketball players, earning All-NBA and All-Defensive honors during his career.
Liam Hendriks | Oakland Athletics
- Perth native who became one of baseball's top relief pitchers during his five seasons with the Oakland Athletics.
- Became the club's closer in 2019, and posted a 1.80 ERA with 25 saves, earning his first MLB All-Star selection.
- Went on to become a three-time MLB All-Star (2019, 2021, and 2022) and two-time American League Reliever of the Year (2020 and 2021).
- One of Australia's most accomplished Major League Baseball players.
Miela Sowah | Golden State Valkyries
- Brisbane native who joined the Golden State Valkyries on a Player Development contract in 2026.
- Helped lead the Townsville Fire to the 2026 WNBL championship before earning her opportunity with Golden State.
- Played collegiately at Duke, where she earned ACC All-Freshman Team honors and still ranks among the program's top 10 for most made 3-pointers.
- Has represented Australia on the international stage.
Patty Mills | Saint Mary's College
- Canberra native and one of Australia's greatest basketball players, highlighted by an NBA championship and five Olympic appearances.
- Starred at Saint Mary's College in Moraga, earning WCC Newcomer of the Year and First-Team All-WCC honors.
- Helped put Saint Mary's on the map as a destination for Australian basketball talent, creating a pipeline that continues to connect Australia to The Bay today.
