Waardenburg aiming to ‘Bring the title back to Melbourne’

Sam Waardenburg has made it immediately clear that his sights are set on the NBL’s greatest prize when he arrives in Melbourne for NBL27.

Having just put pen to paper on a new three-year deal with United, Waardenburg said his goal is to help build on the club’s winning culture by hanging another Championship banner inside John Cain Arena.

“Being in the league now for four years watching Melbourne from afar, it’s clear this is an organisation that just holds itself to a higher standard,” he explained.

“They have a winning culture and that's something I wanted to be a part of. I want to help bring the title back to Melbourne. 

“Dean (Vickerman), with the track record as a successful coach he has, was someone I wanted to align with. Both Shea (Ili) and Chris (Goulding) are proven Championship-winning players, so I’m excited to pick their brains and play alongside them.”

Since coming into the league in NBL23, Waardenburg has seen United tally more wins than any other club (83), 41 of which have come in front of our home crowd inside John Cain Arena.

The big-man says he can’t wait to experience what it’s like having the Melbourne crowd on his side next season.

“I've loved every time I’ve come down and played inside John Cain Arena. I think it’s the premier arena of the league, and the fan base at United is super passionate.

“It’s something you can feel as an opposing player and I can't wait to be on the right side of that now. It’s going to be amazing to experience wins on that court and experience the energy of the crowd behind us, being the best sixth man that they can be for us.

“There are going to be a lot of good memories and good times at home this season, I can't wait to get there.”

The only way to make sure you’re there to see every second of the action across NBL27 is by becoming a Melbourne United Member. Click here to find out more.

‍