Truelson provides update on big-man search

Melbourne United’s search for our final import is currently in full swing, with CEO Nick Truelson and Head Coach Dean Vickerman scouting prospective centers at NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Speaking to Peter Hooley, Truelson provided fans with an update on how the search for a star big-man is going.

“It’s great for us to come to Summer League knowing that we’ve just got a starting center (to recruit),” he explained,

“There’s so many options for us to look at, we’ve probably had a list of about 25 centers that are playing here this week, or are not playing but we’re catching up with their agents and those sort of things.

“We’re excited about the talent we’re seeing… we’re trying to do as much work as we can this week, knowing that it may take a little more time before we find the player we want.

“We know if we can get it right, we’ve got a really balanced lineup already with the imports that we’ve brought in, and also with the locals we’ve brought together. We’re excited about next year.”

The trip to Summer League has also provided Truelson and Vickerman the opportunity to connect with past players, such as New York Knicks star and former United Next Star, Ariel Hukporti.

Truelson said there is potential for a player of a similar style to Hukporti to be brought in, however a number of options remain on the table.

“It was awesome to see Ariel playing, and he played so well yesterday. 

“I know Dean has that (type of player in mind), to find someone like Ariel would be really good, a defensive anchor, but we might also have a center that we find that can score as well and that might take us to a whole new level next year.”

If you can’t wait for Melbourne United basketball to return, sign up and become a member today!

Premium, Gold, Silver and Bronze full season memberships are now officially sold out – with General Reserve the only full season option still available. A limited number of 3 and 5 Game packages remain across selected categories, but they’re going fast!

Not sure how many games you’ll make it to this season? Single game tickets are now on sale via Ticketek. With 14 huge home games locked in at John Cain Arena – including two home Throwdowns, our Open Air Game, and the Multicultural Game – there’s something for everyone.