Ili crowned as New Zealand Basketball's MVP

Melbourne United star Shea Ili was honoured at the Basketball New Zealand Awards on Friday night, taking home a pair of prestigious awards.

The dynamic guard was named Male Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player at the awards evening following his standout campaign with United, combined with his huge performances at the FIBA World Cup for the Tall Blacks.

This marks the second time Ili has won each award, with the first coming in 2017.

Tall Blacks head coach Pero Cameron praised Ili for his skill on the court, as well as his ability to lead his teammates.

“Shea has been a great player for the Tall Blacks for a number of years,” he said.

“The pace and tenacity he plays with, at both ends of the court, is inspiring for his teammates. He deserves all the accolades that there are, especially with his defensive superpowers and his leadership qualities.”

The pair of awards add to the collection of silverware the Kiwi guard won this season, after being named Defensive Player of the Year for both the NBL and Melbourne United.

Ili is currently playing for the Sandringham Sabres in the NBL1 as he prepares for NBL25, as well as a final bid to try and help the Tall Blacks qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

To keep up to date with all of United’s Free Agency news, keep your eye on our Offseason Hub and download the Melbourne United app on iOs or Google Play.