Boomers star Patty Mills given stunning hero's welcome on Torres Strait Islands return

Boomers hero Patty Mills has been given a stunning welcome home to the Torres Strait Islands, swamped by family, friends and fans.

Mills was a driving force behind Australia's bronze medal triumph at the Tokyo Olympics in what was the Boomers' first ever Games medal.

As a senior member of the team, Mills was instrumental in instilling a strong appreciation of those Boomers that came before them and spoke passionately about what the victory meant for basketball in the country going forward.

As a proud Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal man who has always been vocal about what his Indigenous culture means to him, the NBA star was keen to continue the bronze medal celebrations with loved ones back in Australia.

The 33-year-old had hundreds of supporters waiting for him as his boat arrived on Thursday Island in incredible scenes.

His parents and wife were among those there with him as locals posed for photos and requested autographs with Australia's Olympic flagbearer.