One of Australia's all-time basketball greats could be headed home, with Patty Mills reportedly interested in a return to the NBL.
Mills, who previously played in the league for the Melbourne Tigers during the 2011 NBA lockout, is approaching the end of his career in the American league, leading to increased interest in a return to Australia.
This return could see him suit up for the Perth Wildcats, who have a star-guard shaped hole in their roster following the departure of Bryce Cotton.
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Patty Mills linked to Perth Wildcats for NBL homecoming
Patty Mills could be returning to the NBL, with multiple league experts reporting that the NBA veteran has growing interest in the league.
According to CODE Sports' Matt Logue, Mills has had multiple conversations with the Perth Wildcats, who are hoping to replace Bryce Cotton with another dynamic scoring guard.
"Perth has held preliminary talks with Australian NBA star Patty Mills about the prospect of finishing his stellar career in the NBL as a replacement for five-time league MVP Bryce Cotton," Logue wrote.
ESPN's Olgun Uluc also reported that the Boomers' legend is open to a homecoming, saying that "at least one team, one large market team, a team that sits in a big market city that has had a conversation with Patty Mills."
The 36-year-old just finished his 16th season in the NBA, acting as a veteran presence for the Los Angeles Clippers, but it is unclear if he will sign another deal in the league, or instead opt for a return home.
However, it is all-but-certain that Mills will play in the NBL at some point in the future, whether that be this season or in years to come.
"I would be surprised if Patty at some stage doesn't come and play here. I know that's his want and intent," NBL owner Larry Kestelman said this week.