WITH the National Basketball League (NBL) season done and dusted we take a look at the performance of each team and how they fared in season 2021. The next team under the microscope is Melbourne United who won the 2021 NBL title.

SEASON SUMMARY:

It was a season to remember for head coach Dean Vickerman and his strong Melbourne United side, who ultimately overthrew the Perth Wildcats in a thrilling Game Three of the grand final series. The win was a welcomed outcome for the side, who were determined to have another taste at glory since their last win back in the 2017-18 NBL season.

United’s monumental season was encompassed by 28 wins and eight losses, which helped to secure their position at the top by the end conclusion of the regular season. Despite the added pressures of rounding off the regular season as a result of the Victorian lockdowns, it only seemed to help United take the top spot in the competition. The reigning champions’ roster was kept pretty similar for the majority of the season, with no major injuries plaguing the team during the season.

HOW IT UNFOLDED:

Melbourne United opened their season with a win against the Adelaide 36ers, as they kicked off what would be a phenomenal season. In the aftermath of their win against the 36ers, United saw a string of wins before hitting their first loss of the season back in round six of competition. But the slight loss of momentum from Melbourne had failed to continue. Eventually, composure and form were regained in a 10-point win against the Illawarra Hawks that ignited a winning streak. As a result of this winning streak, United would be seen to dominate the scoreboard and take out the title.

United’s chances of securing their second title in four years became a lot clearer when they took down the Southeast Melbourne Phoenix in the semi-final series. The cross-town rivals were no match for Melbourne United who put on a fiery performance to defeat the Phoenix 2-0.

Finally, Melbourne’s showdown with the second-placed Perth Wildcats saw a tight contest between the two sides. United took full advantage of the final series right from the get-go. Game one saw them get over the line against Perth by three points, meanwhile, Melbourne took out game two by nine points. Melbourne capped off the grand final season at John Cain Arena 81 to 76.

WHAT WORKED WELL:

A key part of the sides’ gameplay, United’s defence had a clear presence on the scoreboard.

Yudai Baba’s performance throughout the season a small taste of how good the sides’ defence was. His 31 steals and nine blocks were not only critical for the side to secure the years’ title but also resulted in the fan-favourite picking up Melbourne United’s Defensive Player of the Year.

Chris Goulding helped his side to get started and delighting United fans during the first four minutes. The star talent put on a show collecting three triple-points in the first four minutes of the game and caused chaos for Wildcats’ offense. His nine points paved the way for what was to come in the thrilling contest. Goulding continued to keep the pressure on the Wildcats with 14 points, four rebounds and two assists.

Alongside Goulding, Jock Landale whose performance also proved critical for United with 15 points, nine rebounds, two rebounds and two blocks.

WHAT WENT WRONG:

Whilst Melbourne ranked pretty strong in defence coming in first in the competition, they slipped when it came to offence coming in third just behind Phoenix and Perth. Overall, Melbourne United had a pretty good year given they had taken out the minor championship as well as the grand final series.

ROSTER NEWS:

Melbourne United are not stopping following on from their season win, immediately turning their attention to their roster for the NBL22 season.

A major disappointment for United with Mitch McCarron departing the team to join the Adelaide 36ers.

However, in an effort to fill the void left by McCarron, Melbourne has secured two-time Olympic basketballer Matthew Dellavedova for next season. The Victorian-native, who also has 450 NBA games under his belt, will bolster an already versatile United team.

Dellavedova will join Sydney Kings veteran Brad Newley next year as new signings. Meanwhile, Shea Lli, Chris Goulding, Jack White, Mason Peatling, Jo-Lual-Acuil and David Barlow all re-signed to remain contracted with the team. Zac Triplett has also signed on with Melbourne United.

LOOKING TOWARDS NEXT SEASON:

It will not be a surprise that United will be on everybody’s radar going into the 2022 season. Melbourne United will be aiming for a back-to-back win come this time next year. With Dellavedova and Newley being thrown into the mix of big names, be prepared to see Melbourne United out on the court playing for yet another championship to add to their collection.

Picture credit: Daniel Pockett/AAP