Bowen excited by Melbourne’s roster build

Fresh off signing a two-year contract extension with Melbourne United, Kyle Bowen says he can’t wait to get back on the court for NBL26 alongside a collection of new teammates.

Having helped United reach back-to-back Championship Series appearances, Bowen believes the additions to the lineup have Melbourne well positioned for another strong campaign.

“I’m really enjoying how the roster is shaping up, there’s a real excitement to play with those guys,” he said.

“Finn (Delany) just continues the tradition of elite local four-men who have helped this team find success. It was pretty cool to get a few friendly bouts against him during the Trans-Tasman Throwdown series, he’s definitely got a physicality and toughness that is going to be a challenge to go against every day in practice, but that’s going to give us the best chance to win.

“Fab (Krslovic), I’ve got a lot of respect for him as a fellow blue-collared big-man. I think he’s going to provide a lot of toughness and grit. It’s always great when you can bring in another elite worker and elite rebounder into the team. 

“Tom Wilson is a hell of a player, we all got to see that through his involvement in the program last year.

“Obviously there are a few more key pieces to go but I have full faith in Dean (Vickerman) and the rest of his staff to put a strong roster out there on the court.”

Currently playing in the NZNBL for the Canterbury Rams, Bowen’s focus this offseason has been on the offensive end of the floor, as he looks to provide more of a scoring punch to go along with his elite defence.

Playing under his former St Mary’s teammate, Quinn Clinton, who spent time with United during the NBL25 season, Bowen and the Rams currently sit on top of the competition table.

Having won back-to-back NZNBL Championships, Bowen is hoping to help lead the side to a three-peat.

“Being within the United system for the past two years, I’m really aware of what I need to do to help us achieve our goals,” he explained.

“This offseason I wanted to build on my offensive game; working on my ball-handling, continuing to develop my shot, building that confidence for next season. 

“Canterbury has a rich history of success and the goal is obviously to continue that, so that was a really great challenge for me this offseason. Playing under Quinn is really just a bonus on top of that. He’s one of my closest mates in the basketball world, so it’s been great to build this relationship as player and coach.

“He’s definitely taken a few things from his time in Melbourne which has really helped my transition into the organisation.”

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