Cavs challenge Travers to mirror NBA veterans

While Luke Travers is completely focussed on Melbourne United’s pursuit of an NBL Championship, he also knows what needs to be done for him to progress to the next level and secure a spot in the NBA.

The 21-year-old impressed playing at NBA Summer League with the Cleveland Cavaliers, who drafted him in 2022 with the 56th pick of the NBA Draft.

Across six undefeated games, ‘LT’ averaged 7.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 2 assists, helping guide the Cavs to the Summer League Championship.

Speaking to Roy Ward of The Age, Travers said he was able to surprise the Cavs with his performance and physicality during the tournament.

“Confidence is sky-high. I believe there could be one more year (until I make the NBA),’’ Travers said.

‘‘They were pretty surprised how well my body has transitioned, I’ve put on bit of weight and muscle, which was pretty handy over there, and just how I’ve got better as a basketball player.’’

LISTEN TO TRAVERS SPEAKING TO MEDIA HERE:

The highly rated defensive player has continued to work on his game, particularly his three-point shot, with United this offseason.

He believes turning himself into a can’t-leave shooter would allow him to carve out a role in the NBA similar to a pair of 10-year league veterans.

‘‘I think (my ideal role could be) a ‘three-and-D’ player like an Andrei Kirilenko or a Robert Covington type of guy who can guard one through five, be active with cutting off the ball and knocking down the three-ball,’’ Travers said.

In Kirilenko and Covington, Travers has set himself a high bar, with both players having featured on the league’s All-Defence teams and made north of 180 million dollars combined across their careers.

United fans will get their first opportunity to see Travers take the court in United gear tomorrow night when Melbourne takes on California Baptist University.

While the game is sold out, fans can tune in from home via the club’s YouTube and Facebook pages.

With so much excitement surrounding the team, the time is now to Bring The Blue and become a member today.

With Premium, Gold and Silver full season memberships fully sold out, you’ll have to get in quick to secure your seat for every home game at John Cain Arena this season.