Shea Ili stands United for two more seasons

Melbourne United is thrilled to announce that reigning NBL Best Sixth Man winner Shea Ili has signed an extension to remain with the club through the end of the 2024/25 season.

Coming off perhaps his best professional season which saw him take out United’s SHARE award for the second time in three years, Ili said resigning felt like the best decision for both himself, and his family.

“We’ve found a home base here in Melbourne after leaving New Zealand.

“We can see ourselves being here for a long time. We love the club, being a part of the boys, it’s a great group, and a great environment to be around.”

Ili stepped into a larger role for United in NBL22, entering the starting lineup down the stretch of the season and putting together some big-time scoring games.

Having the freedom to operate within Dean Vickerman’s offence the way he is comfortable with also played into Ili’s decision to remain with United.

“To be surrounded by a staff that has faith in me to play my game is massive.

“Deano and all the coaches know my game and give me the freedom to do what I need to do within our system to help us win. Having that freedom is something every player wants, so it’s the perfect environment for me to play within.”

Having seen his development up close and personal over the past few years, Vickerman praised Ili’s growth, and is ecstatic to have such an important part of his side locked in moving forward.

“Shea has shown a fantastic progression with United, he’s played with some incredible point guards, and just seeing his growth with our team and the New Zealand National Team has been great.

“He’s one of the guys that lives our SHARE values the most over the last few years… he’s an integral part of our program moving forward.

He’s a lead by example guy… Certainly selfless in the way that he plays, diving on loose balls, providing amazing ball pressure, but we’ve seen major growth in his leadership and as a scorer.”

With NBL23 fast approaching, Ili has his eyes firmly set on making a firm push towards another championship with Melbourne.

“The motivation is always there, but there’s definitely a sense of unfinished business.

“We all felt like we had the team to go all the way this season, so while it didn’t go our way, we’re hungry to get back out on the court and compete for a championship.”

With United’s NBL23 schedule revealed on Monday morning, hype is building for the upcoming season, and Melbourne United Memberships are selling fast, with some categories already sold out.

United Memberships are the best and most affordable way for fans to watch the NBL and be part of their favourite club, so now is the TIME TO UNITE!

Single game tickets are expected to go on sale Wednesday, 10 August via Ticketek. Keep an eye on the Club’s social media for more information.