In an empty Chase Center on Tuesday afternoon, Australian rookie Alex Toohey made his highly anticipated Summer League debut for the Golden State Warriors, stepping into the forward role during a 93-79 loss to the Miami Heat. The No. 52 pick in the recent NBA Draft—selected just four spots ahead of teammate Will Richard—Toohey finalized his trade to the Warriors on Sunday and wasted no time showcasing his potential, even as he navigated the steep learning curve of NBA-level competition.
A Gritty Start for the Aussie
The 6-foot-8, 223-pound forward, fresh off a solid season with the Sydney Kings in Australia’s National Basketball League, took time to find his rhythm. His first points came late in the opening quarter, sinking a pair of free throws to the delight of his teammates, whose cheers echoed through the fanless arena. By game’s end, Toohey tallied six points and a team-high six rebounds, five of which he grabbed in a tenacious first half.
Warriors Summer League coach Lainn Wilson praised Toohey’s effort, noting that the rookie’s adjustment to the NBA’s physicality and athleticism will be key. “It’s a different beast here,” Wilson said. “The speed, the strength—it’s a big jump from Australia.”
Toohey echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the challenge of facing the world’s elite athletes. “The gaps you’re used to exploiting just aren’t there,” he said. “These guys are the best of the best. It’s going to take some adjusting, but I’m ready for it.”
Defensive Grit, Offensive Struggles
Toohey’s defensive intensity was a highlight, particularly his spirited matchup against fellow rookie Kasparas Jakucionis. The Aussie held his own inside, showing a willingness to bang in the paint and mix it up with opponents. His rebounding prowess, honed during his time with the Sydney Kings where he averaged 3.9 boards per game, translated well to the Summer League stage.
Offensively, however, Toohey faced challenges. Known for his 26-of-86 three-point shooting in Australia, he struggled to find his shot early, managing just two attempts in the first half. His lack of explosive burst was evident on several drives that were stifled by Miami’s defense. Still, Toohey showed flashes of his potential, flipping in a crafty layup with two minutes remaining to mark his first field goal of the game.
Warriors’ Supporting Cast Shines
With leading scorer Isaiah Mobley sidelined, other Warriors stepped up. Rookie guard Taran Armstrong, who sat out the entire 2024-25 NBA season, dished out seven assists as the team’s floor general. Will Richard, the No. 56 draft pick, continued his scoring tear with 12 points after dropping 16 in Sunday’s game. Jackson Rowe contributed a versatile 14 points and two rebounds, while Utah’s Gabe Madsen drained three triples en route to nine points and four assists. Guard Leopold Delaunay added an efficient 11 points, and Sacramento native Coleman Hawkins delivered nine points, three rebounds, and four assists with high-energy play around the rim.
“Coleman was solid,” Wilson said. “He really brought the intensity and made some great plays out there.”
NBC’s Test Run and a Hometown Hero
The game, closed to the public, provided a unique backdrop for NBC’s test broadcast, marking the network’s return to NBA coverage after a 23-year hiatus. Commentators Noah Eagle, Austin Rivers, and other NBC affiliates filled the quiet arena with their play-by-play, preparing for the network’s upcoming coverage this fall.
On the Heat’s side, San Leandro native Keshad Johnson stole the show, leading all scorers with 15 points. The forward, who recently spoke with the Bay Area News Group about refining his jumper and playmaking, showcased his growth after a nine-point, nine-rebound performance against the Spurs on Saturday. USF alum Marcus Williams chipped in 10 points for Miami, adding local flavor to the matchup.
What’s Next for Toohey and the Warriors?
Toohey’s debut, while not without its hiccups, offered a glimpse of his potential as a versatile forward with defensive tenacity and rebounding instincts. As he continues to adjust to the NBA’s pace and physicality, the Warriors will look to him to unlock his offensive game, particularly his outside shooting.
Golden State’s Summer League squad returns to action on Friday at 8 p.m. against the Portland Trail Blazers in Las Vegas, where Toohey and his teammates will aim to build on their promising performances. For the Australian rookie, it’s just the beginning of a journey to carve out a role in the NBA—and Warriors fans are eager to see what’s next.