Match Preview: 2021 NBL Blitz - Game 1 v NZ Breakers

After a long wait, we can finally say it: THE CHAMPS ARE BACK

Dean Vickerman is set to lead his new-look Melbourne United side in the first game of the NBL’s 2021 pre-season Blitz against the New Zealand Breakers.

All eyes will be on this contest, as the league looks to get its first impressions on how each of these revamped rosters will gel together on the court.

PLAYER TO WATCH

With so many people eager to see the debut of Matthew Dellavedova in a United jersey, one of Melbourne’s other new additions has flown somewhat under the radar in the lead up to these pre-season games.

Scoring guard Caleb Agada has been on fire in team scrimmages and will look to prove that his success in other leagues worldwide was no fluke.

Fresh off leading the Israeli league in points (22.9 PG) and steals (2.4 PG), as well as a run with the Nigerian national team to the Tokyo Olympics, expect to see Agada working aggressively to get good open looks and lock down his opponents.

KEY MATCH UP

The forward position is set to host the battle of the rising stars, as United’s Mason Peatling will look to contain Kiwi highlight-machine, Finn Delany.

After a season spent featuring in the starting line-up, Peatling is aiming to carve out a solid role in NBL22 after establishing himself as United’s workhorse.

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Putting a stop to Delany’s upward trajectory will be no easy feat for Peatling, as ‘Finn Diesel’ seems to improve each time he steps foot on the court.

Delany, who was voted as the Breakers’ MVP in NBL21, had one of his best games of the season last season against United, tallying 33-points and five rebounds in a losing effort.

THE OTHER GUYS

After an up-and-down season in NBL21, New Zealand has rebuilt its roster around some exciting young international talent.

The French pairing of Ousmane Dieng and Hugo Besson will look to stake their claims as top picks in the upcoming NBA draft, while American guard Peyton Siva will look to use his experience to control the game on the offensive end.

As always Tom Abercrombie will be one to watch on the wing for the Breakers, while American import Jeremiah Martin provides NZ with a strong, athletic boost.

GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United v New Zealand Breakers
Tip off: 5:30pm (AEST), Saturday 13 December
Where: Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (closed door)
Watch: Australia - Kayo Freebies, International - NBL YouTube