Nathan Jawai
Sports
| From the tip of Cape York in Bamaga to the worldwide stage, Nathan Jawai is poised to become one of Australia's greatest ever basketballers. Having only played basketball since the age of 16, Nathan has collected an incredible number of accolades in his short career. | ||
| Age | 21 | |
| Language Group Area/s | Kalaw Kawaw Ya | |
| Home | Bamaga | |
| Occupation / Pastime | Basketball player | |
| Favourite place | Bamaga | |
| Hobbies | Basketball | |
| During his rookie season with the Cairns Taipans, Nathan collected a team Most Valuable Player award, MVP at the league's All Star Game as well as winning the NBL Rookie of the Year award. Nathan's natural ability has impressed NBA scouts so much it was likely this year, he'll go to the US this year to play in the NBA. His size has also garnered him comparisons to one of the NBA's greats Shaquille O'Neal, with many referring to him affectionately as "Baby Shaq". Nathan is quick to dismiss the notion, pointing out that he has a different style of game and is a better free throw shooter. "He's more dominant than me, I'm not there yet," he explains. In addition to going to the NBA, Nathan is also preparing for a potential spot with the Boomers basketball team at the Beijing Olympics, giving him the chance to possibly represent Australia alongside his cousin, sprinter, Otis Gowa. |
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| More Information | http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2008/04/21/2223364.htm | |
| Author | Samuel Davis, ABC Far North | |
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