Table of Plenty Coach’s Round Table: Round 1

Welcome to the Table of Plenty Coach’s Round Table! This weekly article will provide you with some behind-the-scenes insight from our team of coaches regarding our performance from the previous round, thanks to Table of Plenty, the Official Snack Partner of Melbourne United.

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Offence - Lead Assistant Coach, Keegan Crawford

“We showed flashes of what our group can do offensively. When we commit to playing for each other and moving the ball we will be a tough team to stop. Looking forward to building more chemistry with this unselfish group of humans."

Despite the loss to the 36ers, United was able to produce 95 points and 21 assists in the contest.

Only once in the club’s history has the team been able to carry those sort of numbers over for an entire season (NBL25), which resulted in a Championship Series appearance.

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Defence - Assistant Coach, Rhys Carter

“We showed some really good signs at the defensive end. When we committed to our off-ball support and worked together, we did a great job of disrupting them at times. We still have some of our core defensive principles to improve on and make them habits.”

Against Adelaide, United had success keeping the 36ers out of the paint, allowing just 34 points close to the hoop, however it was on the perimeter that the visitors did damage.

Melbourne gave up 13 long-range makes at a 43.3% clip, resulting in Adelaide being consistently able to keep hold of the lead and weather their runs.

‍Head Coach Jacob Chance’s final word

“It was a really exciting game one for us with a lot of positive signs, but a good reminder that you have to be good for 40 minutes in this league and we weren't unfortunately good enough for long enough and that'll get you beat. 

It was a good learning opportunity for us. We look forward to taking the learnings from it into a big Throwdown game against South East Melbourne. 

The way they play, they’re going to test your ability to stay solid with your schemes as you try and handle their pressure.”

Melbourne United will next face the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday 24 September from 7:30pm inside John Cain Arena.

Fans can tune in live on ESPN via Disney+ or Kayo.