Despite speculation, it appears Aron Baynes isn’t quite ready to hang up his basketball shoes just yet. The Brisbane Bullets recently announced that the seasoned center will not be returning for the 2024/25 NBL season, sparking rumors about his retirement. However, Baynes himself has clarified that he’s not stepping away from the game.
After two years with the Bullets, Baynes is currently exploring new opportunities, aiming to continue his professional career either within the NBL or potentially elsewhere.
A Look Back at Baynes’ Career
Baynes’ basketball journey is nothing short of impressive. The Australian powerhouse has been a mainstay on the national team for over a decade and spent nine years in the NBA, where he played for five different teams and was part of the San Antonio Spurs’ championship-winning squad in 2014. Known for his tough, no-nonsense style of play, Baynes has been a reliable presence on both ends of the court.
No Plans for Retirement
Despite leaving Brisbane, Baynes has made it clear that he isn’t ready to call it quits. In a recent interview with ESPN, the former NBA big man expressed his eagerness to return to the NBL, effectively shutting down any talk of retirement.
“I’m still hungry to compete,” Baynes said. “I’m in shape, I’m healthy, and I’m ready to get back out there. It’s just about finding the right fit.”
Brisbane Bullets head coach Justin Schueller also confirmed that while Baynes won’t be suiting up for the team next season, he will still maintain some level of involvement with the club. “Aron’s always going to be a Bullet,” Schueller said. “He might not be playing, but he’ll still be around, supporting the team and the community.”
What’s Next for Aron Baynes?
Although the Bullets have locked in their roster for the upcoming season, Baynes could still attract interest from other NBL teams looking for a veteran presence. While most squads have already finalized their lineups, a player of Baynes’ caliber could be a valuable addition if a spot opens up.
When Baynes first joined Brisbane in 2022, he hinted that his long-term goal was to make a return to the NBA, using the NBL as a stepping stone—a path previously taken by fellow Australians like Andrew Bogut and Matthew Dellavedova. Whether that dream is still on his radar remains to be seen, but for now, his focus seems to be firmly set on continuing his career in professional basketball.
Performance Recap
During his stint with the Bullets, Baynes made an impact both on and off the court, mentoring younger players like Rocco Zikarsky. In his first NBL season, he averaged nearly 12 points and eight rebounds per game. However, his numbers took a dip in the following season, posting averages of:
- 9.6 points per game
- 6 rebounds per game
- 0.8 assists per game
- 0.4 blocks per game
- 46% field goal percentage
These stats show that while Baynes may not be at his peak, he still has plenty to offer in terms of experience and physical presence.
A Career Rich in Achievements
Baynes’ career has seen him play pivotal roles in both the NBA and international competitions. His NBA tenure included stints with the Spurs, Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns, and Toronto Raptors. Over nine seasons, he established himself as a solid role player, averaging:
- 6 points per game
- 4.6 rebounds per game
- 48.9% field goal percentage
His contributions were particularly valuable during San Antonio’s 2014 championship run, and he quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his gritty style of play.
Financials and Future Prospects
Throughout his NBA career, Baynes earned over $38 million, according to HoopsHype, a testament to his value as a dependable big man. His reported NBL salary ranged between AU$750,000 and $850,000 per season, although exact figures remain undisclosed.
As Baynes weighs his options, one thing is clear: he’s not ready to close the book on his basketball career. Whether he finds a new home in the NBL or sets his sights on another league, fans can expect to see the “Big Banga” back in action soon.
