Lakers Assistant Phil Handy lauds Vickerman as ‘One of the best coaches on the planet’

Three-time NBA Championship winning coach Phil Handy handed down high praise for Melbourne United’s Dean Vickerman as his side prepares for the Hungry Jack’s NBL Blitz in Darwin.

Handy, who attended United’s home at Hoop City Cheltenham to take in a training session, did not mince words when talking about his respect for Vickerman, calling him one of the world’s best.

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“I’m just a student of the game, and Deano (Vickerman) man, Deano’s one of the best coaches on the planet,” he said.

“Every opportunity I get to come and be around him and his staff and his team, it’s always an opportunity to learn and grow in the game.

“It’s just always good to see different basketball minds and see how they approach the game of basketball from X’s and O’s and communicating with their players.”

Looking at United’s team, Handy, who currently sits on the coaching bench for the Los Angeles Lakers, said he is familiar with a number of Melbourne’s stars, including Captain Chris Goulding, who he spoke about glowingly.

“Goulding is my guy, I just love watching him,” he continued.

“A savvy veteran, he’s had a hell of a career, I’ve known him since he was 17 years old so to see him continue at a high level on the floor is always good.”

With just 19 days remaining until Melbourne open their season at John Cain Arena, time is running out to secure your membership and lock in your seat to see your team hit the court!

Full season, five and three game memberships are available now, and are the best way to support your team across the season.

Tickets for all 14 of United’s home games are on sale now, and with can’t miss events like the Open Air Game, The Multicultural Game, a pair of Throwdowns and much more on their way, the time is now to make sure you don’t miss a moment of Melbourne’s NBL23 campaign.