Ingles aiming to unleash ‘ruthless’ version of Travers

As was the case in his first stint with Melbourne United, Luke Travers is confident the pieces surrounding him will help take his game to the next level.

One key part of that development will be the guidance of NBA veteran and Australian Boomers legend, Joe Ingles, who is set for his first campaign with the club following 12 years playing in the world’s best league.

Knowing what it takes to thrive in the NBA, Ingles believes he can unlock a new version of Travers, capable of dominating the NBL.

“I think I can help him take his game to another level,” Ingles said.

“He's already an unselfish guy, he plays the right way, if there's a pass open, he's going to pass the ball, and that’s hard to find.

“That unselfishness makes him so valuable, but we also want Luke to be a prick out there. 

“We want him to be aggressive, ruthless, every possession. He's going out there to dominate, and that's what he can do.”

Leading up to the signing, Travers and Ingles spoke about how the pair can work together to help Travers reach his full potential, while racking up wins on the court.

Looking at Ingles’ journey to the NBA; he didn’t secure his first contract until the age of 27, Travers is confident this is the best way for him to put together some strong performances in route to returning to the league.

“Joe’s been huge, I spoke to him quite a bit in the buildup to signing. 

“It was a big reason why I've decided to come back. Obviously he made it to the NBA at 27 and, you know, I'm only about to turn 25 now, so he's going to play a huge role in trying to get to the next level.

“I'm gonna lean on him, learn as much as I can and work with him as much as I can. It's never too late to make it to the NBA, he was able to break through and stick around for 12 years. 

“He's obviously such a leader and sees the court so well. So I feel like we're going to help each other in that aspect, just being able to do a little bit of everything and always just trying to make the right play, I think, is the big thing that we do well. 

“Every guy's path is different, and this is how mine is, so I’m going to make the most of it.” 

Ingles and Travers are set to shine inside John Cain Arena in 14 home games for Melbourne United.

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