Kym West | 13 June 2025

Johnny Furphy and his Indiana Pacers are on the brink of history, sitting in a commanding position of being 2-1 up in the NBA Championship. At just 20 years old, the Melbourne-born rookie has enjoyed a dream debut season, emerging as one of the breakout stars of the league.

It's been a whirlwind year for Furphy, who not long ago was representing Victoria in the Under-20 National Championships. A graduate of Basketball Victoria’s performance pathways, Furphy's journey from local courts to the biggest stage in basketball is nothing short of inspiring.

Nathan Cooper-Brown, Basketball Victoria High Performance Coach, reflected on coaching the rising star during his junior years:

“Coaching Johnny Furphy at the U20 level was a genuine privilege. Even then, his combination of athleticism, feel for the game, and tireless work ethic stood out. But what impressed me most was his humility and team-first attitude - he brought energy and composure in equal measure. It’s been no surprise to see him thrive on the international stage. He’s a special talent, but an even better teammate and person.”

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Furphy has made a huge impression on the local and national basketball community, as his time at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) was also notable, Braden Cotter, Men's Assistant Coach, Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence, also coached him from a Victorian level but also got to see him excel at the CoE.

“Furph has always had the great blend of being humble, competitive and a drive to get better. He has always risen to the level of where he is playing with a quiet self-confidence. I love watching him play at this level.”

Furphy now joins an exclusive list of Basketball Victoria alumni who have reached basketball’s elite tier, and currently playing in the NBA/ WNBA, including Dyson Daniels, Josh Giddey, Ezi Magbegor, and Jade Melbourne.

With the teams heading to the Pacers' home court for game four, this is all that stands between Furphy and championship glory. Basketball fans across the country and especially here in Victoria, will be cheering him on as he chases the ultimate prize: an NBA title and a place in the history books. Keep watching!

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