Malith Machar returning to Melbourne United

Written by Melbourne United Media 

Following a successful first season as a Development Player in NBL23, Melbourne United has brought back versatile wing Malith Machar on a two-year DP contract, with the second year carrying a player option.

Machar, who came into United’s program last year for his first professional season, grew enormously physically and as a basketball player.

The South Sudanese sharpshooter has added close to 10kg to him frame since first walking through the doors at Hoop City Cheltenham, which he is now using to great effect in the NBL1 Central, where he is averaging over 16 points and nine rebounds, while cashing in on over 40% of his three-point looks.

Looking at why he wanted to come back, Machar said he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to learn from the elite talent that United had to offer.

“I’m excited, I feel like this is where I belong,” Machar told MU Media.

“Being able to work with the guys that have come back to the club like Jo (Lual-Acuil Jr) and Delly (Matthew Dellavedova), as well as all the vets like Chris (Goulding) and Newls (Brad Newley).

“Our roster is stacked from top to bottom. You’re going against the best every day in practice in a super competitive environment, and that’s the best way to get better.”

 During his first season with United, Machar gravitated towards the veteran presence of Brad Newley, with whom he shares a history, as both have played starring roles for the Forestville Eagles, albeit in different eras.

For Newley, seeing Machar return to the club is validation for all the work he saw the soon-to-be 24-year-old put in over the course of NBL23.

“Malith is a guy that every day at practice was always providing some sort of highlight, which came on the back of him putting in the work,” Newley said.

“I think he’s got the potential to play in this league for a long time. He can come into a game or a scrimmage and make life hard for anyone.

“He’s earned this opportunity and hopefully we can see him on the court making an impact next season.”

 Machar joins Zac Triplett and Campbell Blogg as Development Players on United’s NBL24 quad so far.

The only way you can make sure you see every step of Machar’s continued development is 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.