NBA eyes on United’s player development

Written by Melbourne United Media

Following Melbourne United’s recent success in developing NBA calibre athletes, teams from the world’s top league have been keeping a close eye on the defending champions.

With the likes of Jock Landale and Scotty Hopson getting NBA opportunities, as well Yudai Baba producing strongly in the NBA G League, teams have been eager to see how United operates.

Perhaps because of Landale’s success, a San Antonio Spurs representative attended Melbourne’s recent practice at Hoop City to get a feel for the club’s development structure.

United Head Coach Dean Vickerman believes having international scouts come through is great for the club, and will only bring more eyes on Melbourne.

“I think it’s great for (the scout) to understand where (Jock Landale) developed.

“We hope that Ariel (Hukporti) and Jo (Lual-Acuil Jr) get considered similarly to Jock given the things they’re doing in our league.

“We believe we’ve got an elite facility here, (the scout) was impressed by it. We’ve got something great as a home base here and Hoop City continues to get better.

“The league is on notice in everything that we do.”

United Captain Chris Goulding elaborated further, adding the side is always eager to help teammates grow and develop into elite players.

“The last couple of years we’ve had some guys; Jock being case A1, that came here to really play a lot and develop their game and get in the right mindset to take that next leap.

“We pride ourselves on guys coming here and feeling wanted and feeling comfortable and feeling confident that they can go out and produce on whatever stage it is.”

United’s next home game will be on Saturday 5 March at 8pm against the visiting Brisbane Bullets. Tickets for that game, and Melbourne’s other announced games can be found here.

For those looking to lock in their seats for United’s remaining home games, three and five-game memberships are still available here.