Fans lifting United through tough start

Written by Melbourne United Media

Known for having some of the most passionate supporters in the competition, Melbourne United’s fans have stuck with the team, feverishly cheering their side on despite a 2-4 start to the season.

This was on full display on Sunday evening, when over 10,000 fans packed out John Cain Arena for United’s Grassroots Game against the Sydney Kings.

While Melbourne weren’t able to secure the victory, despite a hot start to the game, the supporters continued to champion United until the final whistle.

Import guard Rayjon Tucker, who had a pair of strong outings at home across Round 4, averaging 19.5 points, 10 rebounds and three assists per night, said he and his teammates have felt the support from their fans each and every time they’ve taken the court.

“The fans have been so great even though we’ve dropped a couple [of games],” Tucker said on Triple-M.

“They’ve rallied behind us. They keep coming and we’ll turn this joint around and get some wins … our focus is this Saturday against Illawarra – every game for us is a big game.”

Tucker, who came into the league surrounded by significant fanfare, appears to have found his feet on Australian soil after a slow first two games.

Across his last four games (Rounds 3 and 4), the American dynamo is the only player in the NBL to rank in the top 6 in both scoring and rebounding, while knocking down 37% of his looks from beyond the arc.

“The game is a totally different game from the NBA. There’s a little bit less space, players are tougher, it’s a little bit more physical, so I’m just getting adjusted to that part and just knowing where my spots are,” Tucker continued.

“The speed of the game is different. It’s a high-IQ league and I’m enjoying it.

“In the NBA we’re used to playing with space – you can’t sit in the paint for more than three seconds defensively or offensively. Guys being able to crowd the paint on guys like me who like to get to the basket makes things just a little bit tougher.

“Just that aspect it’s a bit more physical and you get away with a little bit more – it’s good though, it’s very enjoyable.”

United fans will get their next chance to see Tucker and his teammates take to John Cain Arena on Monday evening when they host the Perth Wildcats for their spooky Halloween themed game.

With the Melbourne Cup public holiday set for the next day, this is the perfect opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some high quality basketball while getting involved in the activities around the stadium!

Tickets for the blockbuster clash are available here!