New Orleans Pelicans vs Melbourne United FULL GAME| Otc 3,2025 NBA Melbourne Game, Preseason Today
venue. It’s so great to be back here tonight. It is exciting. Brings back the Pelicans in possession underway. Williamson a priority immediately pulls up and he drops away coming off the bench as Kelsey told us hasn’t played so far this season. Milton Doyle is in some sort of start. Not the case when you’re playing against him though. Find Delaney the man tasked with matching up on Williamson. pool unloads for you up out of New York [Music] pass a little you’re normally going to see find the destination a little tougher out here as as you see just there there’s a lot of pick and rolls most things get to the pick and roll and try and find a roller or a guy coming off into space whereas the when Trey Murphy recorded him he’s also just a much bigger um more athletic shot when he wants as most of these guys can but that’s where Dino’s got the defensive principles and system that I’m sure tonight operating under all NBA rules, court dimensions, time, the legal defense that By mentioned as well dime inside Edwards part of Melbourne United in their first three wins this season. Look out for Williamson. The physical presence of Zion and how good he looks right now. Yeah, he has said that this is the best shape that he has been in since mostly because of a back complaint. Illy underneath for Edwards. He’ll be shooting free. I I see I see that they they’ve got the scout. But on the other flip side of the coin, Melbourne know they’ve done a bit of training, but not much more. More about fouling Edwards and he only being 47. Commentators curse but inverse. Ludy had called baseline. It looked like he was passing it or trying to pass it when he got bumped. Thought was a massive part of the Golden State Warriors salute. The coach Willie as well. I I know what he’s about and um yeah, he’s going to bring the best out of these guys. Rushing him. Pelicans reload. His jumper no good either. Getting the hands on the ball and grabbing it. This is going to be an interesting situation for Grizzly because he’s undersized even in the NBL at the four. Oh, a credit to what Zion offers. You know, he’s everyone’s worried about him coming down, but Trey Murphy has See, he’s he’s got that athleticism. Williams soon to be shooting free throws again. Kelsey Brown caught some given what his brother’s being able to do. I know he’s got the right people in his camp. A lot of expectation on players that get drafted that high. And I’m sure that be a little nervous as well. Yeah, that’s also the benefit of them coming out and playing these games, right? It’s it’s a little different level for him and he’s it’s been a spectacle all week long with the Pelicans in town. Pull off the glass, scores. Few games that we’ve seen. So, um yeah, it’s I I’d like to see Kovichic up a little bit higher there with Looney rolling. He’s definitely one of the quickest to come off and shoot that thing. Turn over. A nice hands Murphy. Look out. And yeah, hopefully Dino’s changed up a couple things here to get the momentum back in out of his favor. Y Doyle with all the tricks denied by Looney. Got a piece of it. Chris can’t score. Daniels makes it work for Melbourne. And then Doyle finishes it off. And need to take care of the ball and shoot it well if Melbourne are going to have a chance to win. This is not an unforced error. Yeah. bounce pass to a big guy on the run’s always a tough one. Murphy’s been excellent in this first term. No answer currently. Nice take from Daniels. Exciting move for the youngster. Yeah, that’s that first step was quick for Daniels, [Music] [Applause] but certainly going to the ring or Misa, you know, he’s um got Greg Monroe out there, which you know, he’s one of the coaches Greg for a long time. There’s not many better to teach footwork to a young guy when you allow that that roll off running the point for Melbourne. Backto back defensive player of the year that is put into the stands by me. Run a play and get a proper shot up. Melbourne off the inbound. Here’s Tann of Cre. Murphy has been electric to start this one evening for Australian sport. trailing by two. Daniels foul those free throws. So he thought he’d join in on the fun. [Applause] A solid start to his first season here in the NBL as part of the next star program. So they can play against man. Yeah, it translates advantage him because of his size, athleticism and just the brute force. had some difficulties from the free throw line on a hard close out across the night so far. Melbourne United have shared their points in corner number one. Daniels left open it. Williamson cleans it up. Corner pocket three is good from Alvar. [Music] really enjoying the physicality. Score Chris Levik with the overboard crem coming out of the backboard. Chris will be shooting the championship. So, and the language can be a little fruity, but he was uh he behaved himself and he was just an absolute delight. Australia, he loves it here. 240 bonus in commentary a little bit later on. Another legend here in Australia for this weekend. Tom Wilson with his first look. Elvado, a knockdown three-point shooter. Love it. He just likes to win. Well, that we want to do. They want to get out there and but uncharacteristic by their standards. Williamson, just what she said. Send a double. They threw that one with a big drop step. Oh. He just gave himself a little just bounced it off El’s foot away with one from tucked away in the corner. Yeah, know it’s good to see you know these guys from plays through contact. It’s a nice little target getting some first quarter burn as well. He sent packing by Bay and then Calak’s having a good couple of minutes. Look outside. There we go. The athleticism on full display of which he got there was blistering for the big fella like a gazelle out there. The pace of which he went and Pelicans as they look to finish this first quarter in style. There’s a double team that I was talking about walking around as well. So, you know, it’s it’s exciting. And who who wouldn’t be happy having Jesus shovel worth down there? Sure. And it it you want he got the 10 points. Oh, turnover. He looks in shape. Well, he Yeah, he does look in shape, but it’s interesting the NBA and you guys know uh it’s easy in the offseason, you know, because you you spend the whole offseason trying to figure out what you need to do to get better and then when you get into the season, can you maintain that? And that’s going to be really important. As you see, Jordan Hawkins, a fellow Yukon alum, had to uh drop that in there. Uh hit his first three, which is big for him because he’s had a little struggles over the last year or so. So, he’s looking good to start the season. Out there to start the second quarter, his 26 games because of injury last season. This Sha getting after it. Crucial time right now. Starting to get some early action as well. Still yet to see Chris Golding from a Melbourne United point of view. Hasn’t played so far this season because of a soft tissue injury. Williamson backs all the way in and he’ll be on the line now. So much time to reflect and he’s had that time and I’m sure he’s had that from everybody around him, you know, about his weight and at some point when you get older, you have to start saying, I got to do better. It’s it’s important now. I want to go to the next level. And so far, he looks good and he’s doing what he’s supposed to do. So, let’s see if he can maintain that throughout the season. Well, you Yeah, you say maintain, right? And people don’t understand how many options there are there when you get in and around the team. The amount of food that’s around to have to turn down that food when you get on the plane when you get to the hotel. But they talk about his diets being one of the biggest changes and you and I spoke about the importance it is to maintain your diet throughout any regular season. Right. So that’s what that’s going to be the impact. Can he do that through the 82 games? Yeah, if he can do that. And the other thing that that people uh may not understand is you lose conditioning as the season starts because you’re working so hard in training camp and then when the season’s over, when the season starts, as you wear on, you start to do less. So, it’s important to continue to watch your weight, watch what you eat, uh because you are traveling a lot. So, uh it is more difficult. So, we’ll see how he maintains over the course of the especially the first couple of months. What do you make of this New Orleans team? been a some trades in the off season. Got Jordan Gordon Paul and few others. You like them? They still seems like they got bit of rebuilding still to do. Yeah, I think so. And they have a young squad. When you look at their roster, you know, they have a you know, a couple 18 year old kids, you know, uh young early 20s. Um so, you know, in in in in professional sports, you know, as you see a lot in college, like the older players are the ones that are more successful, teams are more successful. So, you know, they’ll they’ll be good and they’ll be right there in it, but they’re going to have to add a player or two in here in the mix uh as the season progresses uh to get deep into the playoffs. Big offensive rebound from Sha. That’s what he does. Brings some physicality and Alvarado found that out first person. So, you know, he’s no slouch in his own in his own right as well. We’ve talked a lot about the Daniels brothers and the defense they bring, but that’s how he’s made his name in the NBA is bringing that defense and getting those quick steals and he showed us earlier. But Shay took advantage of him on that offensive board just Jesse Edwards Tyson Walker check back in. It’s interesting because as I’m looking at Shane for the first time, I really love his demeanor. You know, very tough, very solid. He’s an anchor. like you can kind of buy into that on a team and he and Alvarado are somewhat a sim a similar player. Yeah, 100%. That’s what Shay’s brought to Melbourne for a long time now. Yeah, he’s a two-time defensive player of the league. So, um yeah, he’s he’s a pillar for them and he he leads their defense on the court. So, it’s fun to see him play and do it against a counterpart of his that plays in the NBA. Alvarano back in the game as well. Knocked down a couple of threes in that first quarter. It’s a big play short. Daniels almost wrestles it away from Hawkins. Melvin get the ball back. Dash Daniels is another little a few little hitches in there. But listen, he’s what 17 18 years old like to be out here and play against these guys with the confidence that he has is amazing. He’s going to have a great career. You just got to continue to kind of plug away at it. Yeah, that’s that’s what they say, right? It’s everyone can develop a jump shot when they get to the NBA. There’s enough guys out there rebounding, mate. We saw Looney step out and shoot to three just before. So, come on now. It’s it’s the evolution of the game from Ray of Reggie, then Ray, then Steph, you know, it’s kind of one of those things. Everyone wants to score more from the land of plenty, right? Disy, but I might be a little old, but some of them just, you know, maybe need to put the queue in the rack just every now and again. But what you learn is if you want to stick around, you you have to be able to put it in from beyond. Yeah, for sure. Hawkins out on the floor with Peavey, Alvarado Bay, and Looney for Melvin. Walker, Daniels, Delaney, Edwards, and also Doyle. Here is Michael Peavey. Top of the key. Look nice. See, the the beautiful thing about the game when when you work from inside out, uh whether you throw it into the block or you just drive and attack the paint, it always opens up your shooters on the perimeter. Comes back to the big guys setting a pick and roll and getting down downhill and forcing the defense to collapse, right? So, that’s what New Orleans have have some really good big guys that can draw a lot of attention. is going to open it up for P and Trey Murphy and DB, whoever’s going to be out there shooting. Well, it’s interesting because if you look around the NBA, there a lot of teams there there aren’t defensive schemes like in in the past because they just switch everything. Yeah. So, if you have a big that could shoot and is a great screen setter, then it creates a huge mismatch because you don’t want to switch on to a big where he just rolls you into a post or you put a big on a guard on a perimeter that can shoot. Kind of put him in in the wheelhouse. Yeah, exactly. You know, that was one of the things that um for us in San Antonio and then again in Boston, what Brad Stevens did with Marcus Smart when we were playing the Clippers was we just switch dinosaur. So, you got you got to find a way to stay relevant. I I’ll say you you were you were fortunate uh playing in San Antonio because defensively and offensively you guys had incredible teams which made it difficult the Peninsula Kingswood and I played uh Kingswood Heath. Yeah, that’s Kingston Heath. Kingston Heath. Yes. Oh, a special place. They were, you know, they took great care of me and I I mean, I was in the middle of the city, but it felt like I was in the in the wild, you know. Just felt special. You must be good out of the bunkers cuz that Kingston, you think of bunkers, whoever designed that, my glory field days, there is sand all over the joint. I’m terrible out of the bunkers. But surprisingly, I I I did pretty well over there. Ah, nice. We are spoiled for golf courses here in Australia, aren’t we? I’m I’m jealous. I live they’re not so great. I’m jealous. No. Well, you you’re you can play year round where you live, right? So, that’s that’s not a bad thing. What about Daniel getting into the into the paint a little floater showing his game. If he can get that jump shot on on point, then look out. Listen, he he’s playing with with like he’s downhill. Uh they they haven’t found an answer uh for this kid yet. Uh Trey Murphy. Um his size is is you just can’t do anything with it. He attacks from downhill. Um, every defense in trouble. That’s it. His size, his athleticism. You know, even even if they do get into good position, he stops and shoots over the top of them. And then the points on five of seven. The three ball is the one a few years ago. You may not be familiar with this, but the Adelaide 36ers had a preseason game over in the United States against the Phoenix Suns. And we got the win. And the only reason we got the win is they went completely berserk from the three-point line and made 23 creates. So it’s the same here. In order for to cause an upset, Melbourne United need to shoot the ball well from the three-point line. They started off great, but now they’re five of 15. So getting good looks, but yeah, hopefully they just get a couple more to roll and get that momentum going. Well, the other thing too about the three ball is if you don’t build a rhythm to your threes, then it makes it more difficult, then you start searching. Okay. And and that’s why you do have to have those guys get to the holes so you make sure that you can cave defense and then get those open shooters up there and get out of the shot. Yeah. I mean, the game is so much different now. There’s there’s there to a point a lot of the regular Yeah, that’s you know kind of broke and ripped that hard ass, right? And you continue to do it. He’s a he’s a 2014 champ. He got it back next year. There was a lot of motivation going into that. No, it was just one of those things game already. It doesn’t feel like it’s preeason. Um, so taking that in account, we have to say to ourselves like these guys are going to miss, you know, easier shots. Wow. Got, you know, a couple guys every now and then like, you know, a couple years back. Um, but I don’t know. I I I always make myself available. That’s crazy to me that you don’t have this list away. Yeah. Yeah. I I make myself even when I’m around the team like I’ve seen the guys at uh at a function two nights ago and I’m a treas I love to share. I I told him you guys are you know Jordan Hawk is with the Yukon. I told him I said that’s tough. That’s tough. I told I told Hawk I said I was like use me like I I’m not kidding. They don’t want to waste any time, especially against a team that’s going to play with a lot of energy like Melbourne. They want to try and get up and play with as much pace as possible, guys. That’s a big hit by Tommy Wilson and well executed play coming out of the timeout. Weave action, spread the floor, penetrate and help. Tommy makes a three. Look out. Exactly what Dino wanted, right? Move the ball, get them playing defense, and they’re going to give up shots. These guys don’t want to play defense. They want to get out running. Even for a game like this By that is an exhibition game. Let let’s be honest here. It’s a fabulous spectacle but an exhibition game. Dean Vickerman still wanting them to retain their identity and still be the team that’s made them so successful. Yeah, 100%. That’s the only way they’ve been in games. Got a bit of a on it, has it? That’s it. That was a huge hit by Tommy Wilson. Cuts it back to 13. Just got to keep in touch. Nice look for Daniels. Nearly with the find and Daniels misses everything. Not for the first time. Fears runs the floor. Stripped by Daniels though. There you go. Melbourne come up with it. Yeah, they just got enough in the corner of his eye and just changed his shot just enough then. So, you know, um, got to work on that speed. If if he’s got Ray Allen’s number, I’d be one of those guys hitting up Ray to go out and work out with him. Did that surprise you to hear that a guy like Ray Allen, one of the greatest shooters we’ve ever seen and modern players don’t contact him for advice? For sure. It’s crazy. You know, it’s like a guy who’s making himself available to anyone he gets around in the game is um yeah, like he said, he’s a welcome knowledge. He’s, as Gazy said, one of the most pure, one of the most perfect form shots there’s ever been. and he doesn’t have a list of guys in today’s NBA where you have to make threes wanting to learn from the best. So crazy. 53 to 40. Trey Murphy the leading scorer for the Pal has 15. Zan Williamson 10. Jordan Paul 10 for Melbourne United. Yet another player in double figures. Look, I remember when we were in that 23 or 2013 championship, right? I wasn’t playing the game that night and so T-Mac and I were working out um on court after the shoot around and then um you know we we stayed back and we wanted to play a little bit longer and then they came in Pelicans as well. So Cory Brewer part of that coaching staff Greg Monroe wal past us a little earlier just to name a couple. Pelicans 21 and 61 last year also Jody Meeks who I played with in Detroit. So yeah, long list of coaches. Good guys. I know their pickup games will be a lot of fun, too. There’s that execution out of the time for Melbourne. Really good. The Milton Doyle three. Smooth by Milton Doyle. Even at this level, he doesn’t look rushed. Never looks rushed with his shot. That’s his bully ball. That’s just size prevailing down low. Yeah, from the dunker learning to play out of there from Miss is going to be big. Um, you know, it’s can get a little bit congested out there with Zion cuz he’s he’s a downhill force and likes to do the back cuts, too. So, Miy taking another step and learning how to play from that dunker and move around down there kind of like the Spurs. Nosion is a, you know, um, big step for him as well. A very good rookie season. He’s missing promising signs for the Bells going forward. Still just 21 years of age. Williamson fires it out for Murphy. He’s now one of five from long range. The Pelicans by 10. All knocked away from Coppins. Andrew spoke about it earlier. The desire to play quick here. New Orleans. It’s really good defensive transition the last few possessions by Melbourne United getting back and building a wall as such. Thought he was fou. There was some verticality there. I saw a bit of a drop on the arm but have happy ref let that one go. And again Chris in there forcing another possession for Melbourne. For those fans watching in America right now, number 12 for Melbourne United, Tom Wilson. He’s been on on a journey and he wouldn’t have thought when he gave up the football dream a couple of seasons ago that if he’d be playing in front of 15, thousand here at Rod Lver Arena against an NBA team. It just shows how quickly it can turn when you you dedicate yourself and you put the time in and you’ve obviously got some skill as well. But well done to him. Very proud of him. Williamson attracts a crowd. There’s no way of stopping that. No, you know, Z made himself comfortable there in the mid-range and found his way to get to the rim even with three guys at the end. So, he just again the athleticism he can elevate and find a way to muscle it. Milton Doyle is on a te five of nine, excuse me, six of 10 now, 14 points. He has looked very comfortable. Well, he started off the game hot and you know it’s one of the good things for them United to be able defense but just the hang time and the experience and the poise when you’re in traffic. Excellent by Milton Doyle. Jordan Paul shooting free throws. [Music] There’s one of two. that famous gamewinner of the 2018 NCAA tournament. Nominated for an SV if it was that good. You know, it was definitely received a lot of coverage over there again. Another offensive foul on the screens. I mean, just an injury consent. There we go. Got numbers to him that time and come up with the steal. Ah, Walker picked the pocket. Fumble from Wilson. Here’s a premium look for Mil Doyle. Tipped in by Edwards. Melvin finishing the quarter strong. That’s it. That’s what we’re looking for. Started on defensive end though. They went three guys to Zion, took took away his space and took away the ball. They bring it back to 10, which is a manageable deficit at the main break. Important last couple of possessions here. Murphy’s jumper rolls out. Tip in was nice from Messi. [Music] Melman had nine seconds to work with. Milton Doyle their leading scorer has 14 bump by Williamson putting it and it’s compounded by the fact they’re in the bonus. So Milton Doyle goes to shoot a couple of free throws. Just a spectacular half a basket by by him. six of 11 from the field. And there’s a discrepancy. They’ve only been, this is only the seventh and eighth free throw for Melbourne United. The Pelicans have been to the line 16 times. Norman United’s big offseason signing an NBA champion with Tasmania has gone 2215 and 18 to start the season in his three games. Yeah. you know, he’s he’s been playing phenomenal and yeah, he’s a big reason why Melbourne are where they are on the ladder right now. Takes care of a second. 4.8 seconds on the clock for the PL to try and manufacture something. Williamson downhill with a full head of steam scores. Let’s have your company night. Dash gets the start in the second half and he’s earned it. He had a great first half. Looked really comfortable out there and showed that he can take some of these Pelicans off the bounce. Are going to need a pretty significant contribution from Milton Doyle in this second half. They are. He had a he had a look there, but I think they can get a better look for him. [Applause] back out for Kavon Looney. Jordan Paul with 11 points and off balance three short presence of Daniels was just enough. Edwards runs the lane. Oh, a lot of contact [Music] escape Daniels. Welcome to the big leagues young fell offensive. Welcome to the field. Yeah, that’s a foul on Fus. That’s his fault. He doesn’t quite understand it, but he’s going to have a spell. Tyson Walker the point for Melbourne United. Dash Daniels, Find Delaney, Jesse Edwards, Milton Doyle out there with him as well. Jordan Bull, Jose Alvarado, Trey Murphy, Sadi Bay, and Kavon Looney for the New Orleans Pelicans. [Music] Daniels has been ultra impressive at both ends. Exactly. Just taking it taking it to the rack. He knows these rest calling those fouls down there as well for the guy. Seven points now for the teenager. Oh, that was that was a good look on the defense there by Jesse. Unfortunate to get that one. I don’t know what they expect him to do. He’s retreating three time champion 2017, 18 and 22. The Golden State Warriors. Yeah, another high IQ guy. One of those ones from right place, right time in perfect role for what he had around him with the Warriors. Yeah, he made made a big impact on the glass for them. And you know, that’s the same type of deal he’s coming in here for is, you know, they’ve got a lot of shooters. They just want to get those rebounds so they can get out and run. And that’s what he does. Defensively there just right place, right time, uses his well. Alvarado gave up his look. Sadique Bay came into the game like a house on fire. Jose Alvarado has been pretty quiet since then. Again, Dino’s probably not going to be happy with the lack of ball movement on those last couple. Offensive transition is elite. They run in waves. All five guys running together. Hard to stop. Back out for Murphy. He’s having himself a game. That’s 18 points now on seven of 12 shooting. [Music] He looks fit. He looks healthy. Trey Murphy looks aggressive as well. Pelicans by 11. Great look for Fain. That’s unsuccessful. [Music] Morano flies up the floor. Walker got his hand in and stole it away. [Applause] That’s a hug. That’s what that is. That’s a hug. Sure. That that was a legitimate play. Just the subtleties of the competition, the rules. We are playing NBA. I think that was an exhibition. 14 points, five and a half assists. He’s been super impressive since driving. Both ends of the floor. Picks up. He can cause havoc in the back court offensively. It’s the the real deal complete package. Murphy almost another three rebound by Daniels. Andrew Lopez courtsite. Tell us a little bit more about Jose Alvarado. We guys you mentioned earlier about how you were a little surprised of the the energy of how he was kind of showing off after one of those threes. That is just who Jose Alvarado is every time he steps on the floor. It could be for a game. It could be in practice, in scrimmages, anything he does, he’s going to want to win. And I’m sure Gayy and Aaron, you probably play with a couple of guys who just wanted to win absolutely every single time to compete every single play, every single possession. Well, Alvarado, I mean, he was spectacular in Paris, Puerto Rico, and he he was just a bundle of energy. Played with great pass, but he’s comfortable as well. Averaged 15 points in that Olympics campaign. Three to Walker again. Dash on the board. And another finish going down. That’s it. Anytime they get those multiple opportunities, that’s tough. Nine points on four of eight for Dash Daniels. He’s impressing everyone every time we see him on the floor here in Australia. Another stepped it away. Delaney off the Doyle feed. Backto back market buckets. Melbourne United. Time out call on the Pelicans. That’s the difference. That’s how they want to play there. For these bench guys for New Orleans, you also want to see better execution. That’s something the coaching staff has harped on. Henry Lopez caught alongside Kelsey Brown. Helman have clawed their way back into this. Just six points separate the two teams now. Looney with a nice find from Jordan P. You might go in a plan about what you want to do with your substitution in the second half, but as the game gets a little tighter, you might just re-evaluate that at some stage because no doubt that getting the win is the first priority. Little bit of pride, a little bit of competitive always comes into it though in that fourth quarter, right? You only have to think back to when Melbourne United played Oklahoma City in 2017. That was a one-point game. And coming into that game, we were told that Paul George and Carmelo Anthony would play limited minutes, they ended up playing 30 plus. That’s it. Yeah. No, remember that one well. And yeah, it was a one-point win. So, yeah, the competitiveness even if the coach coach wants to do the right thing, Willie Green Willie Green’s a competitive guy, too. Shout out to Casper Wear and Josh Boon will be watching somewhere in the world. They were awesome that night for Melbourne. Well, Walker knocks a three ball and we’ve got a 2-point ball game. No shi for the remainder of tonight for Melbourne United and suspected hamstring injury. As Kelsey mentioned, Chris Golding we haven’t seen so far in the NBL season. Colorado through traffic. He’s eight points now. Fans wanted a close one and so far that’s what we’ve got. Check it out. Tanner Crebs wide open. You’d be disappointed with that. You get rushed because of the size. You got guys closing out usually in the MBL and you’re you’re accustomed to it. But now you got guys that, you know, 205 210 on the close out and they can get a lot closer, a lot quicker with that size. They they definitely cover the ground really quickly as you’re shooting that ball. So yeah, it’s it’s a tough one, but again, when when they get that penetration downhill and the kick out, the threes usually have a lot more time and space. Back into the game bucket. Take us back to when you went to the NBA, Gazy, did you find that the close out speed of defenders? Well, he had a little bit more experience than I did, but certainly it is intimidating when you’re out there. Just the size and athleticism, the things that hits you most. Big hands again. Daniel’s involved. El Marada knocks that. Try telling Jose Alvarado it’s an exhibition game. He only knows one way. 100%. You see it on on him, but you you see it on on these Melbourne guys, too. They want that win. They they they can smell some blood in the water right now. So, you know, got down to two and they they want to get the lead. for Georgia Tech. He’s a fighter. There’s no doubt about that. Doyle into a culde-sac, so finds a way through. Here’s Bowen on the low ball. Quick fire over the top of Messi. That’s it. No one was expecting that. So, you know, benefit of surprise there. I’m sure Paul K was expecting it to be honest. Messi down the lane and scores. Really tough finish. [Music] 7468. The Pelicans just given themselves a little bit of breathing room now. [Music] Second unit on the floor. Milton Doyle the only starter out there at the moment. [Applause] [Music] AC Halls in that rebound. Carlo Makovic getting set to check in for the first time tonight. Hawkins from the elbow takes his tally to seven points. The last three possession just a little too easy for New Orleans. Got it back to two and it’s like they’ve gone to another gear. Important couple of minutes here for Melbourne. Chris Levik into the corner for Mil Doyle who’s got 19 points to lead all scorers. Yeah. surprised he gave up the the layup but ended up with more points than a great play. Good team play and this is what critical does. 13 from the field too for Milton Doyle. It’s economical. Turnovers hurting them though. Yeah, as soon as they start to get a little bit of momentum that that turnover just comes in and breaks it again. Gets New Orleans to the line to see that score to go just Yeah. settle them all down. 13 7671 lab Arena Hawkins shooting free throws 10 and a half points 23 minutes a game last season impressive thing two teams is Mel United have been spectacular on the boards they actually lead that category only just but Still it’s a a size and physicality mismatch the MBL season United number two in the competition in the rebounding stats so far Chris and Jesse Edwards a massive part of that as Tom Wilson’s three rattles out [Applause] Willie Green looks a little frustrated with the Pelicans right now but he’ll enjoy that he does like Uh 81 to 71. It’s back to a double digit lead for the Pelicans once more. Wilson relocates. That’s better. He’s getting them up. Great confidence. He just missed the one prior, but no hesitation on the open three. Time that the Pelicans have looked to get away. Melbourne have done a good job of just dragging them back. Exactly. Just keep it within reach. Chris perhaps a little unlucky there. Yeah, more like he got all ball but just a little unbalanced on the landing. Hawkins gets to the line to shoot a couple. The NBA refs are really good at calling that. As soon as a guy leaves the ground though and you make contact with them, which puts them off balance, it’s it’s a risk to them. So the NBA refs are really good at calling those. Well, I would argue big or with your athleticism. That’s what you played with. Just be careful arguing with a man of arabane size cuz I’m not backing you up. But I would argue that it was the hand on the ball and the ball that that uh maybe threw him off balance. But anyway, there he went goes to the line, knocks down a couple. You really finished that sentence off quickly and backed away, didn’t you? Move on to the next. It’s the deflection. Shot clock at seven. Doyle has 19 points. Bog out there in this third quarter. A deep three from Walker. That’s not the look they were after. do a bit. Two and a half minutes to play in quarter number three. Alvarado unsuccessful as well. Again, that’s what we were talking about with Ray before the the ill-advised threes was just it doesn’t make the game look good. Whereas a pick and roll with the lob that makes the game look good. Fans get into it. Jesse Edwards has 10 of his own now to go with four rebounds. It’s been a good contribution for Melbourne United’s big man. Did enough there to change the shot cleaned up by Peavey. Yeah, you can see why Edwards is still very much on an NBA radar with his skill sets around the rim. Protects the rim. A couple of games in the NBA last season with Charlotte and to be a love threat. a love threat in the NBA game is is uh really helpful for the shooters as well. Makes the the bigs really think about how they’re going to play the pick and roll. Yeah. Well, it means you have to tag. So, you know, you got to come in tag and who are you going to leave open to tag? So, that’s where New Orleans have three shooters out there. You got to make a choice with one of them. Forgive me. It was Minnesota that Jesse Edwards played a couple of games with last season. Now with their shooters in Hawkins lost the handle. Managed to keep it in front of him only momentarily though and then the Bells throw it away and Willie Green throws the head. Yeah, exactly. You know that the cost a little bit here. 85 to 76. The Pelicans read United in possession clock. He’s working his way into the game now. 85 to 78. 38 seconds remaining in this third quarter here at Rod Labour Arena. It’s a flat looking jumper. Jeremiah Fears. [Music] Doyle surveys the options. Pass was spot on the arms of Delaney who got a flat tire. I got a flat tire. He got blocked by the rim and it was stood up on the Melbourne United bench. He had the flex celebration. He was ready to go. Had to sit down pretty quickly. Yeah, I think I think the whole stadium counted those points before that action. [Applause] points for Find Delaney. Locked down to 20 seconds. The second quarter, it was Zion Williamson who finished strong. Akovic out there to finish off the term. Jeremiah Fears Walker all up and in. The youngster takes it to the glass. Melvin did well. Not to foul. I have 2.2 seconds to work with. Moving away. Daniel’s out there for Melbourne defensively in his last possession. Be with the inbounding duties. Makovich will have to shoot. Foul Edwards. His fourth. You are allowed six. That’s his fifth right there, I think. Yeah, they just updated that five. That’s all right. NBA rules. So, still good. Still got one left. They will need him out there. Melvin United [Applause] [Music] [Applause] by Carlo Makovic. First points on the evening. 42 games last season. Started in seven of them. 24 years of age. Walker on the string right now. He’s got some problems. Slightly different style too that the Phoenix are are playing. You’re right up and in. Let me see if that they maintain that strategy against the Pelicans. Good drive by Delaney. And they haven’t played Ruy since the throw down last Thursday at Southeast Melbourne where they were belted really by 20 points by Melbourne United. So they’ll come out with a few points to prove on Sunday, I’d imagine, as well. Yeah, definitely. Uh, Coach King’s going to have them out at the right frame of mind hopefully and yeah, it’s build from the defense like they’ve been doing since the start of the season. So, be an interesting one to see how it goes. This is another one. Not bad across the 76% free throw shooter. The other thing we’ve learned from this game, and it’s brings me back to the days when this joint was buzzing throughout the ‘ 90s, got to find a way to get the Phoenix and United to play more NBL games here in this venue. Absolutely unbelievable atmosphere. Such an amazing venue. Not Labor Arena carries all this extra noise, but she can tip it in. I was thinking about you today, Drew. your family and your association with the sport here in Australia. Walker unloads a three ball with wild [Music] [Applause] can’t score either. I’m guessing this means a lot to you and your family tonight. I think it’s the entire basketball community that we appreciate the fact that we’re now at a level where we can come and compete against NBA teams and this is certainly a contest. I know that haven’t necessarily played their their main guys in this second half, but still this is a highly competitive game. Peter got Daniels up in the air. Knocked down the mid-ranger though. Melvin trail by seven. Doyle pulls up in transition for three. Long rebound falls back out to Walker. He coughs it up. Had an opportunity for Melvin the last couple of possessions of being able to connect. He’s having a tough start to his NBA career. Be he’s now one of eight of three from threes. They’ve been good looks, too. Five turnovers, which never looks good on the stat line. Timeout called by New Orleans. 87 to 80. The Pelicans lead it by a little bit more in their favor right now. And if they’re going to close this one out, it is going to be on the backs of the rookies and guys on the back end of the roster, especially guys like Micah Peavey. You get lost sometimes when you’re a second round pick on your team with two lottery picks. And he’s coming out here two steals and a lot more deflections. Really like the way he’s been playing tonight. Great to have you with us tonight, Andrew. Pelicans by seven. That seems to be the common theme here is that they would like to be leading by a little bit more than what they are right now. Back into the game for Melbourne. Milton Doyle out there too. Tom Wilson, Fabian Crystal and Dash Daniels. Jeremiah Fears. Bryce McGawan for his first minutes. Michael Peavey, Carlo Makovic and Trey Alexander [Music] out there for the pals. Turnover off to the races. His fears. This will be good for his confidence. They needed that achieving transition. Two of 10 now. [Music] He’s got a big say in the Pelican’s future. Daniels almost travels almost and try to improve and avoid mistakes like that. So young to be out here playing with experienced guys trying to learn on the run. And another fast result for Oklahoma. Another early pick for them. Got a couple in recent years. Spin and the finish from Bryce McGawan. [Music] But another one of those moments. 13 points the advantage. Now another one of those moments where United just need to stay in touch. What they give for Sha to be out on the floor right now particularly the defensive end. can’t take any further part in the game because of the hamstring issue. Wilson falls over 93 to 82 and beyond tonight from a Tom Wilson point of view just adds to Melbourne United’s depth. Yeah, no doubt. And Tom Wilson is a sort of guy that no matter what level he plays at, he has the ability to to to score and he can do it in a variety of different ways. and not going to overly Oh, that’s got to be goal 10 off the back board. But uh going it’s on display here. He just sees the ball well. Speed off the bounce. Lots of hop on it. He’s now two of 12. Jeremiah Fears. We got to respect the fact that he hasn’t shied away from it. he’s continuing to attack the rim and system that you have and what your fundamentals are and so it’s it’s it’s a lot of playing you know which getting up and down is fun and um then you know they always always find a way to work in a few too many drills in my opinion but um you know they they kind of feel like drills are necessary playing up and down it’s interesting hearing comments from guys some of the veterans like Steve Kerr I saw him grabbing and talking about how the game changed so much back in the day there were tour days that were war of attrition really in the preseason. Now it’s a lot this term of load management kicks in pretty early. I mean it’s also using your heads a little bit, right? So it’s it’s one of those things. Yeah, exactly. You got to put too many miles on the guy straight away, but at the same time you don’t play two games in a day either, right? So you got to got to get guys used to what they have to do when they go out there on the court. Two more for Bill Doyle. That’s 21. Makes it look easy there. Just strolls on in and gets a shot up over multiple guys. Averaging 18 points across the NBL season so far. He is in outstanding form. Got to respect the confidence of he is just not going to die wondering right now. His uh first, second, and third priority is to find a way to get that ball up. three of 14 in by far the leading attempt and [Music] eight of 30 for the night from deep the Pelicans. Sure they like to tidy that stat up now and the start of the season. Yeah, works in our favor. Hopefully we can capitalize on that here for United. Oh getting fancy with it himself. Never did I think that I would hear Aaron Baines refer to Melbourne United as we, but here we are. Hey, mate. That’s Australian basketball’s coming through. That’s that’s one of those things for me, you know, it’s kind of see the NBA, see the Americans and just see the see see what’s good for Australian basketball. So, yeah, it’s it’s one of those things that’s exciting and you can’t help but get drawn into the competitiveness of it. You know, we walk away here, but it’s a nine-point game. This is this is far from over and so made by New Orleans. He’s far from over if this guy’s in this sort of mood for the rest of the night. [Music] [Applause] Do putting on show. Jeremiah Fierce just continues to jack away. My goodness. I mean, I’ve said it before, but kick out pass. Tenn the three. And now it gets interesting. This is the point. Does he stay with this group or does he does he possibly bring back on Trey Murphy or someone else? He’s put up a few points and settle them down a bit. That’s what we want to see that we want to see that competitiveness come down to it. And you saw Fears wanted to stay out to try and find a rhythm, but Milton staying out cuz he’s got a rhythm. So looking three rebound by Dash Daniels. Six of them for the evening to go with his 11 points. [Music] Melbourne have got a real sniff here and they can sense it. Doyle no good offensive rebound. Edwards fighting against Makovic off call. Makovich did well on the floor for the pals. Alexander Shoemate Makovic McGowens and McDaniels. Here’s Alexander. Sh kept it alive. That was smart for Melvin. Daniels, Delaney, Krebs, Edwards, and Doyle. Could have called that travel as well. He came to the jump stop. We saw that one down the other end with Dash. So would have been nice to get that. Saw Christian Shoemake number 42 undrafted at the draft played for the Pel in the summer league time at Tulsa and then went to Bise State for 144 games. Fourpoint difference. The NBA NBL Melbourne series living up to the hype. Is chopped ahead of the stripe. Yeah, this is a an early test for the Pelicans and for the coaching staff that also get a look at how some of these guys that are trying to make the roster or earn their playing time, how they respond in these situations. Exactly. Do you still do the little things or you try and you know step outside of what you do? So that that’s where is a good look for them be a I guess an addition to the team that don’t take away anything. or how do you respond when there’s a level of urgency that’s hard to replicate in practice? Yeah, you can’t do it in practice at this same level, right? You got three NBA referees out here that are calling the game and that’s one where a lot of the time in practice ref the coaches aren’t going to call the same fouls the same way as they do in the game. A lot of contact on Daniels. Shoe mate found the cut in McGawan’s back door. Makovich misses the lock. Need a bucket here. Scoreboard pressure. Final two minutes approaching. Doyle high off the glass. Can’t score. Melbourne to get the ball. Understands how important it is. He wants to have a chat. But Melbourne will not go away. Doyle out of the corner. Wide open. Look. That would have been perfect. Andrew Lopez, this thing’s close. It is close. And I will say Gasey made a great point earlier. These are guys who are not going to be able to replicate this in practice. You want to see how these guys who may be two-way guys, maybe GLeague guys this year, how are they going to respond in the moment in some very crucial minutes. Two minutes, two minutes again for a tough shot. Milk downhill. Great pass for Crebs. Almost drops tip in. Almost goes. It was an almost possession for Melbourne. It’s been an almost game for Melbourne. Even during the flow of the first half, there were some times when they just weren’t able to capitalize on some easier opportunities. And there was another example of it. Good looks and the tip ends just can’t get him to fall. [Music] Well inside the final two minutes now. This thing going all the way to the end in this NBA Melbourne series. Pelicans need a bucket on his trip down the floor. Alexander looking for a tough finish. Shou came flying in and stuffed it and that is underrated. The fella’s been sitting on the bench for 40 odd minutes and comes in and puts his chin on the rim for the following dunk. That needs respect. Young legs young leg bounce ones on. I don’t like your chance at home. You can ask. They’ve been polite about it. Zion loves it. Yeah, he’s pumping them up. He’s been nothing but smiles all week, hasn’t it? He’s been in fact the whole Pelicans team and the traveling party have just been fantastic with their energy and their willingness to be here with fullourt pressure. [Applause] So, Bells can burn a bit of time off here. gallons and six points. That might just about be enough. Important offensive possession. Definitely definitely do right here and injury play here and they’re going to be very cautious with him. But the good news is he physically looks in pristine condition with the deep three. Dean Vikman, you spoke about getting some subs out there. The youngster that you can see wearing number 32 for Melbourne. Henry S is 17 years of age. One of Melbourne United’s training players has played for Australia at under 15 and 16 level. This is an unbelievable opportunity for this. What a night. Just a splendiperous night and one that hopefully a lot of the fans here got a taste of what it’s like to go to an NBA game. Well, like you said, it was run exactly like an NBA game. Everything from the three-point line down to the timeouts, you know, having having the entire crews down here from New Orleans, we had the dancers, we had the mascots. So, it’s it’s been a show. But yeah, like you said, having having Henry out there to run around and even if it’s only for the minute, it’s it’s something that adds another notch to his belt and, you know, gives him that more confidence that he’s where he belongs. Really enjoyed your use of the word splendiferous, too. That that didn’t go unnoticed. Just trying to bring That was outstanding. It just, you know, great thesaurus for dinner, I see. [Applause] [Music] The New Orleans Pelicans will come away winners tonight 107 to 97. A gallant performance from Melbourne United who pushed them all the way. Sold out crowd at Ron.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Melbourne Melbourne United | FULL Game | NBA Abu Dhabi Game, Preseason | NBA TODAY
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1 comment
Why do you cut live play??? Please don't cut during live action during your edits