Melbourne United have announced veteran forward Brad Newley will return to the club for the NBL23 season.
Newley played a critical role for United in their top-of-the-table NBL22 campaign, providing a spark off the bench with his leadership and experience.
Speaking to Melbourne United Media, Newley said he believes Melbourne has the talent to make another run at a championship.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time in Melbourne on and off the court,” he said.
“(I’m coming back for) the opportunity to win that elusive championship. We had a crack this year and fell just short but I think we have the people around the club to achieve that goal.
“The opportunity to continue playing at the highest level is hard to say no to. I’m a basketball guy, it’s what I’ve done my entire life and I want to continue to do it at the highest level in Australia.
“To be able to do it at Melbourne United is exciting for me, I just want to bring what I brought this year into next season.”
Despite being asked to play a different role in his first season with Melbourne, the 37-year-old remained dangerous, shooting over 36% from beyond the arc, while maintaining his reputation as one of the league’s best finishers in transition.
Coach Dean Vickerman praised Newley’s ability on the court, as well as his value as a connector in the locker-room.
“Newls brings fantastic veteran leadership to our team,” Vickerman said.
“I thought one of the invaluable qualities he brought to our group this year was his ability to keep things light and keep our group enjoying their basketball.
“He’s a great connector of our group from the rookies to the veterans, a great facilitator of our culture.”
Newley joins the eight players already confirmed to be returning from last season as United heads into the free-agency period.
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