Joe Ingles is coming home. The Australian basketball legend has signed a two-year deal with Melbourne United, returning to the NBL after 12 years and more than 800 NBA games. The 38-year-old spent his final NBA season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, who reached the Western Conference semi-finals. "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 started his professional career with the now-defunct South Dragons in 2006, winning an NBL championship before the club folded in 2009. A member of the Boomers' bronze medal-winning team at the Tokyo Olympics, he competed in five Olympics and four FIBA World Cups, also winning a EuroLeague championship during his distinguished overseas career. The 203cm forward will link up with long-time national team teammate Chris Goulding at United, joining a roster that includes Shea Ili, Sam Waardenburg, Fabijan Krslovic, Kyle Bowen and Dash Daniels, with three import spots still to fill.

"From a basketball perspective, this opportunity really excited me," Ingles said. "I still love competing, I still love the game, and I believe I can genuinely help this group win." Goulding welcomed the addition, praising his longtime teammate's decision-making, leadership and shooting abilities. Ingles arrives at a Melbourne United team in transition following the departure of long-term coach Dean Vickerman, but the veteran made clear his focus is on immediate impact rather than individual achievements.