Hukporti energy lifts United

A pair of stout defensive performances have proved Melbourne United Next Star Ariel Hukporti hasn’t lost a step following an achilles injury that kept him on the sidelines all of last season.

In wins over South East Melbourne and Adelaide, the towering seven-footer tallied eight blocks, the most in the competition.

Speaking following the road win over the 36ers, Hukporti expanded on his mindset since coming back to the court.

“I’ve been showing it at practice, I’ve been showing it on the court, I’m giving everything just to win,” he said.

“Even when Jo (Lual-Acuil Jr) is back I’m going to continue playing like I am now. I’m just a high energy guy so I’m trying to bring the team up.

“The first half we weren’t really there, we were up by 14 and then we let our intensity down. The second half I was trying to get the team up, just bringing the energy as a young guy, blocking shots, running down the court, setting good screens, getting people open.”

Matthew Dellavedova was one of the people that often benefited from Hukporti’s efforts, and in turn reciprocated his appreciation in the form of pin-point passes into the post.

The German big-man touched on the connection he has with Dellavedova.

“I’ve been talking to Delly quite a lot… We have a nice chemistry now even in practice.

“I’ve been looking up to him since I was a little kid, watching him with Cleveland, so just to play with him is a privilege.”

Fans will get another chance to see the duo link up when United host the Tasmania JackJumpers in The Grassroots Game on Sunday 8 October.

Tickets to the game are nearly sold out, so get in quick to make sure you don’t miss out on another blockbuster matchup.