Peatling shines in return to the court

Written by Melbourne United Media 

After missing Melbourne United’s first 10 games of the season, Mason Peatling made an immediate impact in his return to the court on Thursday night.

Coming off the bench, the man known as ‘Horse’ did a bit of everything to help United, finishing with 11 points, three rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal.

Speaking after the game, Peatling said it felt great to be able to contribute for his team again despite the close loss.

“It felt awesome playing in front of the fans again, it really sucked to just watch it for those first 10 games so I’m really glad to be a part of it again,” he continued.

“Watching a lot of basketball just makes you that much more hungry. I was just trying to impact the game in a lot of different ways, whether that’s rebounding and playing hard D or scoring, just taking what the game gives you making plays.  

“I’m just happy to be on the floor again and happy to be contributing and helping the team out. I’m looking forward to more success going forward.”

While he only played 15 minutes, Peatlings confidence and comfortability back out on the floor was clear.

Some of the people most pleased to see Horse on the court once again were the United coaching staff, with Assistant Coach Rhys Carter praising the forward for his all-around effort.

“It was great to have him out there, just his energy and the way he goes about things, we just love it, it's what we’re about,” Carter said.

“He’s on the floor, he’s creating extra opportunities for us through offensive rebounds, through deflections, through helping people defensively.

“It’s so great to have him back out there, we look forward to him building and getting even better for us throughout the year.”

Peatling and United next face the SEM Phoenix on Saturday evening at John Cain Arena before their next home game against the Tasmania JackJumpers on November 26 at 8pm.

Tickets remain available here!