NBL PRESEASON clashes typically offer a first glimpse at off-season recruits, and Melbourne United would be thrilled with how their new players performed in the win over the Cairns Taipans when the two sides had an exhibition game last night.

It is a different looking United side heading into the 2025/26 season, with the departures of Matthew Dellavedova and Jack White leaving a gaping hole on the roster of one of the competition’s perennial contenders.

However, Melbourne made some eye-catching additions in the form of NBL champion and star guard Milton Doyle crossing the Bass Strait to join the team, while Finn Delany was acquired to add some presence in the frontcourt.

Thursday’s clash was the first glimpse at what United could look like for the upcoming season, and it was ominous signs as Melbourne put an undermanned Taipans side to the sword en route to a 25-point win at Casey Stadium.

Melbourne United (116) def. Cairns Taipans (91)

The game was essentially over in the first 10 minutes, with United dropping an astounding 41 points in the opening frame, including a game-breaking 17-0 run that perfectly encapsulated the cohesion Melbourne can have on the offensive end.

At the first change, United held a remarkable 26-point lead, and although the Taipans were certainly improved for the remainder of the match and got more production from their experienced players, the deficit was simply too much, and the home side cruised home to a comfortable victory.

The most impressive performer for the contest was far and away Doyle, who looks primed for a big campaign in his new colours if last night’s performance was anything to go by. In just 22 minutes of court time, the guard finished with 22 points on 6/8 shooting from the field to go with his four rebounds and four assists, looking his smooth-moving self despite the change of scenery.

Also catching the eye was Delany, who looked rock solid in his first outing in a United uniform, finishing with 15 points and looks to play a key role within the starting lineup. At his best, the forward can be a crucial piece in Melbourne’s pursuit of a championship, and looked comfortable with his new teammates on Thursday.

NBL1 signing and former Collingwood Magpie Tom Wilson also looked impressive with his 11 points following a strong campaign with the Melbourne Tigers, and should offer plenty of scoring throughout the upcoming season.

Another big positive for United was a first look at NBL Next Star Dash Daniels, and he was able to play significant minutes given Melbourne had control from the early stages of the clash. Fresh off a gold medal winning campaign with the Australian Boomers, Daniels had five points, three rebounds and three assists off the bench, and looks to be in line for plenty of opportunity this year.

For the Taipans, Kyrin Galloway was a shining light on a tough night at the office, posting a game-high 24 points in defeat while shooting 4/6 from behind the arc in a sharpshooting display in the absence of some of his star teammates.