Matthew Dellavedova to depart United for NBA

Melbourne United’s Matthew Dellavedova has signed with the Sacramento Kings in the NBA, and as a result will depart Melbourne United.

Dellavedova enjoyed a successful debut in the NBL with Melbourne United last season, helping the club to 20 wins en route to a minor premiership.

While Dellavedova averaged 10.3 points and 4.3 assists per game for United, his leadership both on and off the court was arguably where he had his biggest impact.

The former NBA Champion and Boomers lead guard spoke highly of his time in Melbourne, and kept the door open for a potential return.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time with Melbourne United,” he said.

“Playing for Melbourne in front of family and friends has been awesome. My first year with the club was filled with so many great moments and was one of my most enjoyable years playing basketball, with the group of boys we had.”

“I appreciate the club making me feel so welcome and getting me healthy and playing at a high level again.”

“I feel like I’ve got unfinished business here, so hopefully I can return down the track and help United win a championship. I will definitely be following the team and supporting from afar this season.”

Melbourne United’s Head Coach Dean Vickerman spoke of his admiration of the Australian point guard.

“Melbourne United couldn’t be more excited for Delly. His aim was always to come back to Australia, work on his body and his game, in order to then try and get back to the NBA.”

“To have helped him achieve that goal is fantastic. We’re incredibly excited for him to be back in the NBA and we wish him all the best.”

With Dellavedova having signed a 3-year with Melbourne United deal prior to the NBL22 season, Vickerman also touched on the hole that will be left behind following his departure.

“Delly was massive for us last season. His knowledge and leadership, as well as his on-court ability, made us all better and you can’t simply replace a person like that.”

“With that said, the same way that we prepared for a scenario that had (Jack) Whitey leaving us, we prepared for this scenario, too. We are confident that we can now make some key decisions and bring in some serious talent that will help us go even further next season.”

“Following the recent announcement of Isaac (Humphries) and our schedule coming out, our fans have a lot to be excited about. Melbourne United will be back stronger than ever.”

Following the recent announcement that Dellavedova’s NBL22 Melbourne United teammate Jack White will also be joining the NBA, Melbourne United has further been solidified as a destination club for players looking to take their game to the next level and make the leap to the number one league in the world.

Melbourne United CEO Nick Truelson recently spoke to Melbourne United Media about this focus.

“At Melbourne United, we pride ourselves on being a destination club for both local and international players. To be able to help these athletes become the best version of themselves and further their chances to reach the NBA will continue to be a focus for our organisation.”

With Melbourne United’s NBL23 Schedule now released, the anticipation for the upcoming season is starting to ramp up. With a number of players still to join United’s NBL23 roster, fans are encouraged to download Melbourne United’s app to stay up to date.

With the hype beginning to build for the upcoming season, Melbourne United Memberships are selling fast, with some categories already sold out. Melbourne United Memberships are the best and most affordable way for fans to watch the NBL and be part of their favourite club, so now is the TIME TO UNITE!