Jo Lual-Acuil Jr to rejoin United in NBL24

Written by Melbourne United Media

NBL22 MVP Finalist and former NBL Champion Jo Lual-Acuil Jr will return to Melbourne United for the upcoming NBL24 season on a two year deal with a player option for the second year.

Coming off a productive year in the Chinese Basketball Association, Lual-Acuil Jr will once again don a Melbourne United uniform as he looks to deliver the club another Championship.

After ending his last NBL campaign as undoubtedly the league’s most dominant big-man, ranking number one in blocks per game as well as top five in rebounding and top 10 in scoring, JLA has his sights set on a big year back in the league.

Having always kept the door open to a comeback with United, Lual-Acuil Jr touched on his excitement ahead of his return.

“I always said that if I was going to come back to the NBL, it would be to play for Melbourne United,” he said.

“I’m happy and excited to be back home and I can’t wait to play in front of the best fans in the league.”

Having the towering center back in the lineup provides a major boost for Head Coach Dean Vickerman, who is confident JLA can take his game to another level in NBL24.

“The opportunity for him to come home, be with his family and showcase himself to have another shot at the NBA and win another Championship with United is what he has in front of him.

“He thrives in our system. We give him the freedom to handle the basketball, play on the perimeter, shoot the ball and he takes that freedom and makes everyone around him better.”

These sentiments were echoed by club captain Chris Goulding, who added the positive impact Lual-Acuil Jr’s leadership brings to the team.

“We know what he can do on the floor but he’s also a guy that sets high standards and holds teammates accountable to the standards we expect,” he said.

“Bringing Jo back is a great signing for the culture of Melbourne United and I’m sure the fans are excited to see him back.”

Despite having only played three seasons with MU, Lual-Acuil Jr has already etched his name into the club’s history, ranking number one all-time in blocks, third in rebounds, and fourth in points.

The big-man also holds the club’s single game records for total rebounds (21) and blocks (seven).

JLA will join Chris Goulding, Shea Ili, Flynn Cameron, Tanner Krebs, Zac Triplett and Josh Duach as contracted players heading into NBL24.

If you want to make sure you’re in the building to see Lual-Acuil Jr make his much anticipated return to John Cain Arena, lock in your membership today!

NBL24 Memberships are ON SALE NOW. As well as saving up to 40% on the price of walk-up tickets, members will receive exclusive merch discounts, access to Melbourne United Super Clinics, priority access to John Cain Arena for home games, access to member functions, post-game meet and greets and much more.