Perth Wildcats prepare marquee offer for Patty Mills as Brisbane Bullets talks stall

Key facts

• Patty Mills, 37, is a five-time Olympian and NBA champion.
• Mills currently plays for La Laguna Tenerife in Spain, averaging 17.7 points in six games.
• The Perth Wildcats plan to submit a marquee offer to sign Mills.
• Brisbane Bullets' talks with Mills have stalled after initial discussions.
• Mills expects guarantees for team travel and specific accommodation.
• Mills last played in the NBL in 2011 for the Melbourne Tigers.
• Mills could command over $1.2 million in the NBL, comparable to his European earnings.
• Mills is targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and FIBA World Cup.

Wildcats circle as Mills' NBL return gains momentum

The Perth Wildcats are preparing a formal offer to sign Australian basketball icon Patty Mills as their marquee player, according to multiple reports. The move comes as rival interest from the Brisbane Bullets has stalled, opening a clear path for the Western Australian club. Mills, a five-time Olympian and NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014, has not played in the NBL since 2011 when he suited up for the Melbourne Tigers. The 37-year-old is currently in Spain with La Laguna Tenerife, where he is averaging 17.7 points across six games. The Wildcats, one of the NBL's most successful franchises, see Mills as a potential cornerstone to build around as they look to rebound from recent seasons. The club has a history of making bold moves, most notably building a dynasty around six-time MVP Bryce Cotton.

Brisbane's pursuit fades as Mills sets conditions

The Brisbane Bullets had engaged in early discussions with Mills' representatives about a return to the NBL, but those talks have since tapered off. the Bullets' interest 'appears to have stalled,' leaving the Wildcats as the primary suitor. Mills is understood to have specific expectations regarding his contract and living arrangements. According to sources, the veteran guard wants guarantees that members of his support team can travel with the NBL side and requires specific accommodation. These conditions reflect the professionalism he developed over 16 NBA seasons and five Olympic campaigns. Any deal for Mills is expected to be complex, but the Wildcats are prepared to submit an offer despite the challenges. The club plans to sign Mills as its marquee man, a designation that carries significant salary cap implications.

Financial and lifestyle factors weigh on decision

Financially, a move back to Australia would not represent a major sacrifice for Mills. He is expected to command upwards of $1.2 million in the NBL, a figure comparable to his earnings in Europe. Mills is tipped to be among the top earners for foreign players at La Laguna Tenerife, with a deal worth over $1 million per season. Beyond money, the decision may hinge on lifestyle and legacy. Mills has become more open to an NBL return in recent months, with the appeal of being close to friends and family a significant drawcard. Mills had warmed to the idea of returning to Australia for the first time in years. Mills is also weighing his next move with an eye on extending his international career. He is targeting selection for future tournaments, including the FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, when he will be 39.

Wildcats' history of big moves fuels speculation

The Perth Wildcats have a track record of making aggressive plays for top talent. The club previously built a dynasty around Bryce Cotton, a six-time NBL MVP, and is now looking to reload. Signing Mills would be a statement of intent, potentially sparking a resurgence for the powerhouse club. Mills' decorated résumé includes 16 NBA seasons, five Olympic appearances, and a bronze medal with the Boomers at the Tokyo 2020 Games. He is one of Australia's most decorated basketball exports, and his return to the NBL would be a major coup for the league. The Wildcats' pursuit comes as the NBL free agency period heats up, with several teams making roster moves. The club recently released contracted players Sunday Dech and Lat Mayen, freeing up cap space and roster spots.

European option remains as Mills weighs future

Despite the growing momentum toward an NBL return, Mills still has the option to continue his career in Europe. He is performing at a high level for La Laguna Tenerife, averaging 17.7 points and 1.3 assists in his first six games. The lure of European basketball remains appealing, and Mills has not yet made a final decision. Mills turns 38 in August, but his recent performances suggest he still has plenty to offer. His ability to score at a high level, combined with his leadership and experience, makes him a valuable asset for any team. The Wildcats will need to act quickly if they want to secure Mills, as the European season is ongoing and other NBL teams could re-enter the fray. The club's offer is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks.

A potential homecoming that could reshape the NBL

If Mills signs with the Wildcats, it would mark his first NBL appearance in 14 years and could reshape the competitive landscape of the league. The Wildcats, already a storied franchise, would add a player of immense talent and experience, potentially challenging for championships. For Mills, a return to Australia would offer a chance to play in front of family and friends while continuing his career at a high level. It would also allow him to prepare for future international competitions in a familiar environment. The coming weeks will be critical as the Wildcats formalize their offer and Mills weighs his options. The basketball world in Australia will be watching closely.

The bottom line

• Perth Wildcats are preparing a marquee offer for Patty Mills, while Brisbane Bullets talks have stalled.
• Mills is averaging 17.7 points in Spain and could earn over $1.2 million in the NBL.
• Mills' conditions include guarantees for his support team and accommodation.
• The 37-year-old is targeting the 2028 Olympics and FIBA World Cup, influencing his decision.
• A Mills return would be his first NBL stint since 2011 and could revitalize the Wildcats.