First openly gay male NBL player Isaac Humphries announces retirement

In short:

Adelaide 36ers star Isaac Humphries is retiring from competitive basketball after struggling with a persistent knee injury.

Humphries came out as gay in 2022, making him the first openly gay male NBL player.

What's next?

The 28-year-old will continue working with the club in a non-playing role.

Australia's first openly gay NBL player Isaac Humphries has announced he will retire from competitive basketball after struggling with an ongoing knee issue.

The 28-year-old centre has made a significant impact on and off the court, making history in 2022 when he came out as gay while playing for Melbourne United.

The Adelaide 36ers club champion made the announcement in a post on Instagram, saying he was "so sad to say goodbye like this".

"Sometimes life deals you cards that tell your story for you, and due to my continued knee injury I've had to make the incredibly difficult decision to retire,"

he said.

"I'll miss my teammates, the laughs, the trenches. I'll miss the fans, the noise and the feelings of having an entire community behind you."

The former Boomer said he had given so much of his life to the sport, and it gave him a life he could never have imagined back.

"There is so much more to say, but for now, just thank you," he said.

"I hope the identity I created lives on in every person who wears my jersey, and in every place I was lucky enough to call home."

Humphries paid tribute to his contribution to both the club and Australian basketball, executive chairman Grant Kelley saying he has long admired Isaac's personal and professional courage.

"Beyond his impact on the court, Isaac has used his platform to advocate strongly for LGBTQI+ rights and mental health awareness, making a meaningful difference in the wider community," he said.

After a strong showing in Adelaide's NBL26 campaign, Humphries has not made an appearance for Adelaide in the current season due to his ongoing knee issue.

Humphries has played 173 games in the league, with 124 games at the Adelaide 36ers over five seasons.

He was named the club's MVP in the NBL24 season, returning to the club after a period with the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA and a one season stint at Melbourne United.

The Adelaide 36ers said Humphries will be continuing to work with the club, having accepted a non-playing role working in the community, marketing and commercial teams.