IT MIGHT have taken a season-best performance from import Rayjon Tucker, but Melbourne United are back on track after defeating the SEM Phoenix by 16 points in the Throwdown at John Cain Arena on Thursday night.

After a recent drop in form, Melbourne found itself with its back against the wall coming into the second match of Round 11, but conjured some excellent offence to get back on the winners’ list and hand the Phoenix a reality check.

Leading the charge was Tucker, who was simply outstanding across all four quarters, but particularly in the first half when United snatched control of the contest. He was far and away the most impactful player on the court, and is building into some strong form over the past chunk of games.

Melbourne United (92) def. SEM Phoenix (76)

Rayjon Tucker – 33 points, one rebound, one assist

Although at times he is an inaccurate shooter, Tucker nailed 11 of his 15 shots from the field, including going four of five from behind the arc, an area that often indicates how strong his performance is.

The import produced 25 of his 33 points in the first two quarters of play, bursting out of the blocks and delivering some of his best play of the season.

As a player, he is at his best when he is going downhill and attacking the rim, showing some serious athleticism. He played to his strengths on Thursday night and exposed the Phoenix’s lack of interior defence.

He was throwing down some seriously ferocious dunks and getting the John Cain Arena fans on their feet. The highlight of the match came on the eve of halftime, when Tucker caught the lob in the air and threw down the thunderous slam thanks to some seriously impressive hops.

When the Phoenix began to crowd the paint, Tucker showed that he is just as deadly from behind the arc, nailing a number of heat checks. Shooting-wise, he does the most damage from the corner, often finding himself wide-open as the defenders closed out on the likes of Chris Goulding. With more confidence in his shooting motion, he looks a much more settled shooter as he adds another bow to his game.

Tucker was the true catalyst for Melbourne’s victory, with the result essentially decided behind his 25 first-half points. Coach Dean Vickerman would be pleased with his performance and if he can continue his offensive output, United could make a late charge up the standings after a disappointing month or so.