Aussie Basketball Wunderkind Trains with Phoenix

Johnny Furphy, who on Thursday committed to Kansas University after a lengthy process, showed his skill under the watchful eye of head coach Mike Kelly today.

Furphy, 18, took part in scrimmage, Phoenix drills and spent time chatting with senior players Rhys Vague and Mitch Creek.

“Today’s session was really valuable, playing against bigger, older bodies, professionals, will be great for my basketball,” Furphy told Phoenix Media.

“It was my first time training with an NBL team, it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while."

Standing at 6”8, Furphy showcased his wares, stunning the squad with a mammoth dunk that sent a thud around the State Basketball Centre.

Furphy took two months to decide which school to ply his trade with, choosing Kansas, the number one ranked college team in 2022, despite never having been to the state.

“I’ve heard it’s a good place, a good family culture, I’m excited to see what it’s like, but I don’t really know much about it.”

Despite being a self-professed Philadelphia 76ers fan, it’s a Brooklyn Nets guard that Furphy has kept a close eye on.

“Someone I really modelled my game on is Mikal Bridges, I think there are some similarities there.”

The Fitzroy-product has set his sights on eventually playing for the Boomers and finding a spot on an NBA-list.

“That would be a dream come true, representing Australia and just playing professionally.

“Short term, I’d like to get acclimatised to college basketball, it’s going to be a big adjustment, but I’m just so excited and grateful to go.”

Furphy will travel to Kansas in two week’s time.

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