Travers, Oduro, Anthony, spearheading United’s recent surge

In rounds six and seven, off the back of some continued individual excellence, the boys in blue have ironed out a lot of kinks, on their way to three straight wins, with an average margin of 15 points. 

Contributions have come from across the board, but the combination of Luke Travers, Josh Oduro, and Cole Anthony, have highlighted a versatility on both ends that can compete with any team in the competition. 

The trio averaged 63.5 points per game on a combined 53% from the field during the streak, whilst impacting almost every other aspect of the floor in the process. 

Against the Sydney Kings in round six, coming off of his NBL career high in a close loss against the Wildcats in the previous contest, the rim-rocker from Rockingham, Luke Travers, was excellent.  

Offensively, his scoring and playmaking in the open court were integral to the win; his ability to push the break as a dribbler, passer or receiver being  second to none in the NBL. Perhaps what was most impressive about his play in that game, and all year, is his impact on the defensive side of the ball. 

His ability to play on and off ball defence against the Kings’ top scorers stood out, switching between all positions on the floor at various points. Travers finished the contest with a +14 in the plus/minus and 19 points. 

In Cairns against the Taipans Cole Anthony was electric; paralysing Cairns’ guards on defence whilst getting whatever he wanted on the offensive end, shooting 11/20 from the field and dishing out four dimes. 

His ability to get two feet in the paint in the half-court is as good as any guard in the competition, and was especially impactful in the third quarter of that contest, where he had 10 points; his fifth double-digit third period of NBL27. 

Defensively, his anticipation and excellent hands proved too much for his opponent. In the contest he picked the Taipans’ pocket a team season-high four times and was the most effective on the glass he’s been all year, hauling in seven boards. 

Capping off the three game run against the Breakers, Oduro had his crowning achievement thus far this season. It’s safe to say that through the first third of NBL27, the big-man has been United’s most consistent contributor, averaging 19.4 points per game on over 60% shooting from the field. Against the Breakers, Oduro got his 17 points, but his rebounding, amongst tall timber from the opposition, was outstanding, finishing with 19 boards

The performance is only one of two times in United history that a player has had as many or more points and rebounds in a single game.

Defensively, his rim protection was paramount, as it has been all year. In the contest he swatted two shots away and altered many more; for the year, the import is top ten in the competition in blocks per game. 

As the chemistry between these three and the entire Melbourne squad continues to develop, there’s no doubt their crazy performances will continue. 

To catch these three live in action, get your tickets here to this Saturday the 7th of November’s home matchup against the Brisbane Bullets inside John Cain Arena.

If you can’t make it on the night the game will be live on ESPN via Kayo or Disney+ and Channel 9 or 9NOW. 

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