Hey there! If you’re curious about Alex Ducas, you’re in for a story of grit, talent, and an incredible journey from a small Australian town to the NBA. Born in Geraldton, Western Australia, Alex has become a rising star, recently celebrating an NBA championship with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2025. Known for his sharpshooting and hard work, his path from local courts to the big leagues is inspiring. Let’s dive into who Alex Ducas is, his career highlights, and what makes him a standout.
Early Life and Roots in Geraldton
Alex Ducas was born on December 11, 2000, in Geraldton, a coastal town in Western Australia. Growing up, he was surrounded by basketball, thanks to his dad, Aaron, a coach for the local Geraldton Buccaneers. Alex started playing early, showing a knack for the game at Nagle Catholic College. At just 15, he debuted for the Buccaneers in the State Basketball League (SBL) in 2016, averaging 2.27 points over 22 games. By 2017, he was up to 5.67 points and 1.47 rebounds per game, hinting at his potential. His love for the sport and hometown support shaped his drive, setting the stage for bigger things.
Discovering His Talent
Alex’s early years were all about building skills. Playing for the Buccaneers, he learned to handle pressure despite being younger than most teammates. His quick release and shooting ability stood out, even as a teen. In 2017, he joined the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence in Canberra, sharpening his game against top young players. There, he played five games in the South East Australian Basketball League, averaging 2.4 points. These experiences taught him discipline and teamwork, key to his later success.
Family Influence
Basketball runs in the Ducas family. Aaron, Alex’s dad, has been a coach with the Buccaneers, even serving as an assistant in 2024. Growing up with a coach for a father meant Alex had constant guidance and a court to practice on. His family’s support kept him grounded, pushing him to chase his dreams while staying connected to Geraldton’s tight-knit community. This foundation helped him face challenges as he moved to bigger stages.
College Career at Saint Mary’s
In 2019, Alex took a big leap, moving to the U.S. to play for Saint Mary’s Gaels in California. Over five seasons, he became a program legend, playing a record 150 games and finishing second in team history with 278 three-pointers. His college stats include 9.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game in his final year, shooting a career-best 43.8% from three. He earned second-team All-WCC honors in 2022 and 2024 and helped win the 2024 WCC tournament. Despite an ankle injury in his sophomore year, Alex’s consistency and shooting made him a fan favorite.
Freshman to Star Player
Alex’s freshman year at Saint Mary’s was a strong start. He played 33 games, starting 11, more than any true freshman since Matthew Dellavedova. He averaged modest stats but showed promise. By his senior year, he was a starter, hitting 12.5 points per game and 41.4% from three. His standout game came against Davidson, where he scored 23 points, sinking seven threes. His growth showed his work ethic and ability to adapt.
Overcoming Challenges
Injuries tested Alex’s resilience. A sophomore ankle injury limited him to 14 games, but he bounced back stronger. In his final season, a back injury during the NCAA tournament was a setback, yet he returned for a fifth year, proving his dedication. His ability to push through pain and keep improving made him a leader for the Gaels, earning respect from coaches and teammates alike.
Journey to the NBA
After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Alex didn’t give up. He joined the Oklahoma City Thunder for the 2024 NBA Summer League, showcasing his shooting skills. On July 16, 2024, he signed a two-way contract with the Thunder and their G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue. In 2025, he became an NBA champion when the Thunder won the title, a huge moment for the rookie. Alex has played 22 games for OKC, averaging 1.7 points and 1.2 rebounds, often stepping up when regulars rested. His journey from Geraldton to NBA glory is a testament to his perseverance.
Summer League and Signing
Alex’s Summer League stint was his chance to shine. His three-point shooting caught the Thunder’s eye, leading to his two-way contract. Posts on X celebrated his signing, with fans noting his fit as a sharpshooter for OKC’s fast-paced style. Though his minutes are limited, his 35.7% three-point shooting in college translates to the pros, making him a valuable role player when called upon.
Championship Glory
The 2025 NBA championship was a dream come true for Alex Ducas. As a two-way player, he contributed in 22 games, including a notable performance against the Jazz, scoring two points in 14 minutes after a quad injury. X posts from @NBA and @NBL1 hailed him as Australia’s eighth NBA champion, a proud moment for his hometown. His role, though small, showed he could hang with the best, earning him respect league-wide.
What Makes Alex Ducas Special?
Alex’s story is about more than stats. His sharpshooting, with a high arc and quick release, makes him a threat from deep, as seen in college games where he hit career-highs like 25 points against South Dakota State. His 6’6” frame and basketball IQ let him contribute rebounds and assists, too. Off the court, he’s humble, often crediting his family and coaches. His journey inspires young Australian players, showing that hard work can take you from a small town to the NBA.
Shooting Prowess
Alex’s three-point shooting is his calling card. In college, he hit 278 threes, second in Saint Mary’s history. Games like his 17-point, five-three performance against Portland showed his clutch ability. His 43.8% three-point shooting in his final college season carried into the NBA, where he’s a reliable option off the bench. Defenders must respect his range, opening up plays for teammates.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Alex’s rise from Geraldton to the NBA is a beacon for young athletes. His path—local leagues, college stardom, and now an NBA title—shows what’s possible. X posts from @codebballau suggest he could join Australia’s Boomers for the 2028 LA Olympics, alongside talents like Johnny Furphy. His story encourages kids to dream big while staying true to their roots.
What’s Next for Alex Ducas?
With an NBA title under his belt, Alex’s future looks bright. His two-way contract means he’ll split time between the Thunder and the G League, honing his skills. Fans on X are excited about his potential to crack the Boomers squad, and his shooting could earn him more NBA minutes. Whether he stays with OKC or grows elsewhere, Alex’s work ethic and talent will keep him climbing. For now, he’s a champion, and Geraldton couldn’t be prouder.
