Former Illawarra Hawks Legend Andrew Ogilvy Opens Up About His Sexuality
Retired Australian basketball star Andrew Ogilvy, widely known as "AJ", has made a significant personal announcement by coming out as gay. The former Illawarra Hawks centre revealed this during an interview with Adelaide 36ers player Isaac Humphries, conducted as part of the National Basketball League's fourth annual Pride Round.
A Courageous Revelation During Pride Celebrations
Ogilvy, who enjoyed a distinguished professional career spanning multiple countries, explained that the current environment finally felt right for him to share his truth publicly. "There's now a place for us to have this conversation, to be able to talk as openly as this," the 37-year-old stated. He emphasized how his visibility could help others in similar situations, saying "If people want to talk to someone, people want to be able to ask opinions, ask questions, it gives them someone else to reach to."
Reflecting on a Storied Basketball Career
The three-time All-NBL first team selection made 218 appearances in Australia's premier basketball competition. His career highlights include:
- Leading the Illawarra Hawks to a grand final appearance in 2017
- Winning a Basketball Bundesliga championship in Germany
- Playing professionally in Spain and Turkey
- Representing the Sydney Kings during the 2013-14 season
Ogilvy retired from professional basketball in 2022 after a successful career that saw him become one of the Illawarra Hawks' most celebrated players.
Personal Life and Marriage
The retired athlete revealed he has been married to his long-time partner for eighteen months. The couple originally met while Ogilvy was playing for the Sydney Kings. While some teammates were aware of their relationship during his playing days, Ogilvy admitted he never felt completely comfortable coming out publicly while actively competing. "I probably didn't live my life as authentically as probably could have during my time, especially in the NBL," he reflected.
Inspired by Fellow Athletes
Ogilvy credited Isaac Humphries, who came out as gay while playing for Melbourne United in 2022, with giving him the courage to make his own announcement. Humphries became the second active men's professional basketball player to come out after NBA centre Jason Collins in 2013. "(It was) hugely beneficial to have someone of your stature and attitude be able to step forward and say this is who you are," Ogilvy said of Humphries' influence.
The Importance of Visibility in Sport
Humphries praised Ogilvy's decision to come out, highlighting its significance for the broader community. "It's not about forcing or anything, it's just a bit of visibility for a community," Humphries explained. "Everybody is welcome. Basketball is such a universal space and universal game, why wouldn't we also celebrate this community?"
NBL's Commitment to Inclusion
The National Basketball League's Pride Round, which spans rounds 18 and 20 of the current season, provides a platform for these important conversations about inclusion and diversity in Australian sport. The initiative represents the league's ongoing commitment to creating welcoming environments for all athletes and fans.
Ogilvy's announcement comes during a period of increasing visibility for LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports, marking another step forward in Australian basketball's journey toward greater inclusivity and acceptance.
