CG43 praised after enormous campaign

Written by Melbourne United Basketball

Despite falling short of his ultimate goal of a fourth NBL Championship, Chris Goulding put up one of the most spectacular seasons of his career in NBL23.

United’s Captain was at times unstoppable, lighting up some of the league’s best defences en route to his highest scoring average in the past three seasons.

The sharpshooter was efficient in his scoring exploits, registering the best true shooting numbers across his time with United.

Looking back at the season his star guard had, Head Coach Dean Vickerman praised Goulding for his ability to lift the team, no matter who surrounded him on the court.

“At times with people being off the floor and him understanding our system, we really leaned on his experience and tried to make him a greater focal point of the offence this season,” he said.

“He did such a good job defensively as well, that shouldn’t be overlooked. For him to be on the All-NBL 2nd team, we’ve got to do a good job of putting the right pieces around him to support him.

“We want him to be a focal point of our offence, but perhaps have a better balance around him.”

When Goulding thrived, so too did United.

In games that CG43 attempted 10 or more three pointers, the Olympic Bronze medalist averaged nearly 22 points per game, while United went 10-2, winning by an average margin of 9.25 points.

“When he scored well we were highly successful. He was shooting the ball at a high percentage and being a high usage guy for us so it's a credit to him for doing this at this stage of his career,” Vickerman added.

With the offseason ahead of him, Vickerman is confident Goulding will come back with even greater energy and motivation to lift MU back into Championship contention in NBL24.

“He’s going to have a huge offseason as well… we’re confident he’s going to come back in amazing shape.

“I think his last offseason was a big part of why he played so well last season, just in the strength that he gained and I see him doing that again.”

Make sure you lock in your seat to see Goulding return to the court next season for all of United’s home games next season by becoming a member today!

NBL24 Memberships are ON SALE NOW. As well as saving up to 40% on the price of walk-up tickets, members will receive exclusive merch discounts, access to Melbourne United Super Clinics, priority access to John Cain Arena for home games, access to member functions, post-game meet and greets and much more.