United guard depth unlike anything former MVP has seen

Coming into the NBL24 season, many looked at the sheer depth of talent on display in Melbourne United’s back court and wondered how all the pieces would fit together.

Five rounds into their new campaign, those questions have for the most-part been answered, with MU having secured eight wins from their opening nine games, frequently on the back of their elite guard-play.

One pundit United’s depth has blown away is former league-MVP Derek Rucker, who says he has never seen a more talented quartet of guards than the combination of Chris Goulding, Shea Ili, Matthew Dellavedova and Ian Clark.

“That is the best four guards I’ve seen play together on one NBL team ever,” he said.

“Ian Clark’s been playing fantastic basketball, I think he’s playing better now than when he was a part of the Sydney Kings.

“Chris Goulding has found his way, he’s a legend, we know what he can do. Shea Ili is one of the best point guards in the competition and then you bring back Delly with the experience, the toughness and determination. 

“They look so deep, they defend and they can score the basketball… The thing I like most is that it seems like they’ve got their offensive cohesion right. Chris Goulding is kind of spearheading that attack and it’s all been for the betterment of their win-loss record.”

United fans may get their chance to see all four of the star guards in the lineup once again come Monday evening when Melbourne welcomes the Perth Wildcats into John Cain Arena.

The contest comes as part of Indigenous Round, and will see MU proudly wear their new Indigenous uniforms designed by Taungurung woman, Tiffany Hunter.

Taking place the night before the Melbourne Cup, it’s the perfect opportunity to get the family together for a blockbuster evening of hoops.

To lock in your spot, secure your seat today via ticketek, or grab a three or five game membership to ensure you’re there for Melbourne’s remaining home games.