Jordan Ngatai, a 31-year-old forward from New Zealand, joins the Bosco Bulls as their first signing for the 2024/2025 season. Relocating to Kapfenberg with his family, he values the club’s family-oriented culture and shares his excitement for European basketball. Ngatai reflects on his impressive career, highlights his debut for New Zealand, and expresses his desire to inspire future players. Settling into Austria, he enjoys exploring the local sights while looking forward to his journey with the Bulls.
Jordan Ngatai: A New Chapter with the Bosco Bulls
Jordan Ngatai has made headlines as the first new signing for the Bosco Bulls for the 2024/2025 season. The 31-year-old, standing at an impressive 1.96 meters, hails from New Zealand and brings a wealth of basketball experience from his time in New Zealand, Australia, and Finland. Recently, he relocated to Kapfenberg with his family and has stepped into his role as a forward with the Bosco Bulls.
Reasons for Choosing Kapfenberg
When asked about his decision to move to Kapfenberg, Jordan shared, “I heard that the club is very family-oriented. Family means a lot to me, and I believe that was decisive for me. I also had a good conversation with the coach; he has good plans for the season, and I feel that we are on the same wavelength and have the same ideas about what we can achieve.”
While he was not previously familiar with the Bulls, he recognized Austria’s basketball league. “It would be a lie to say that I had heard of them before. I knew that Austria has a league, but I didn’t know much about Kapfenberg,” he admitted.
Jordan’s career has taken him across continents, and he expressed his honor in joining the Bulls: “Every time I have the chance to play abroad, I feel very honored and privileged to have this opportunity. Kapfenberg honestly reminds me a lot of my home in New Zealand. The nature, the mountains, just everything. It gives me the same cozy feeling as my hometown.”
A Bright Future in Basketball
Reflecting on his journey, Jordan recalled his debut for New Zealand as a significant highlight, stating, “That was one of my best basketball moments. It is definitely something very special to represent your country at the highest level.” He also noted the distinct differences between playing basketball in Australia and Europe, emphasizing the structured style of European basketball compared to the fast-paced Australian game.
Jordan’s passion for European basketball grew as he followed leagues like the Euro Cup, the German BBL, and the Spanish ACB. Despite a childhood dream of playing in the NBA, he recognized that Europe was a valuable opportunity. “I have always wanted to get to know Europe a bit, and how better to do that than to play basketball and see a bit of Europe at the same time?”
Starting his basketball journey at the age of 13, Jordan initially pursued rugby. It wasn’t until high school that he transitioned into basketball, a decision that has shaped his career. Now, as he settles into life in Kapfenberg, he appreciates the family-oriented culture of the Bulls, which has made him and his family feel welcome.
Living with his family in the Bulls’ home, Jordan expressed contentment with their new life in Austria. “I think everything has been really great,” he said. They’ve already begun to explore the beautiful sights of Austria, including Graz, which Jordan describes as having a charming “old town flair.”
As a player, Jordan describes himself as versatile and passionate about basketball. He aims to inspire the next generation, wishing to transition into coaching after his playing career. With a relaxed demeanor and a strong family bond, Jordan Ngatai is excited for what lies ahead with the Bosco Bulls.