The proud Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal man was among the 12 man squad announced today. The Boomers are sending an experienced side to Rio featuring five NBA players, the most of any of their previous line-ups.
Patty has previously competed at both the London and Beijing Olympic Games where the Boomers finished seventh both times. However, he will no doubt be hoping to repeat his strong personal performance at London where he averaged 21.2 points per game, the best of any player.
He is confident that the team can compete on the world stage.
“This is certainly one of the strongest teams I’ve been a part of,” he told Olympics.com.
“We all understand it is going to be a very hard task but the belief in each other that we can get it done is very exciting.”
Patty led the team as they travelled to Uluru for some bonding time before their Olympic training camp. With the players competing in teams all over the world during the year, the trip was a chance to recharge in the country’s spiritual centre.
During their time there they were also able to inspect the refurbished courts and hoops in the Mutujulu community paid for by the NBA Players’ Association. The grateful community responded by giving each player a painting and unveiling a banner for the team to take to the Rio Olympic Games.
Patrick 'Patty' Mills with kids from the Mutujulu community enjoying their new basketball courts. Source: Rush Photography
The trip marked Patty’s first visit to Uluru and it gave him an opportunity to reflect on his cultural heritage and the ability of sports stars to give back to the broader community.
“I’ve grown to be able to be a more powerful Indigenous role model and the way I see it an Australian role model as well,” he said to .
