Melbourne United defeated the Adelaide 36ers 100-82 to win their best-of-five series 3-2 and secure their maiden NBL Championship.
United’s Chris Goulding was awarded the Larry Sengstock NBL Grand Finals MVP.
It was a fitting victory for first-year coach Dean Vickerman, who assumed the head coaching role after a short stint as an assistant with the Sydney Kings. He brought the right culture, work ethic, attitude and leadership that literally united a stacked Melbourne roster.
Melbourne’s home court advantage gave the home side a big boost as they came out firing with a 34-22 1st quarter lead. The second quarter proved the same as United maintained a 57-44 halftime lead.
Adelaide looked flat and uninspired in the first half as they surrendered a big lead. The 36ers sorely missed Josh Childress’ energy and all around game, but the Adelaide bench failed to bring any resistance apart from Anthony Drmic’s 10 points.
The 36ers fought back in the third quarter and got as close as six points. Melbourne maintained their poise and controlled the boards and converted on second chance points to hold a nine point lead heading into the fourth. It was all Melbourne in the final quarter as the 36ers folded under pressure.
Boomers veteran and United elder statesman David Andersen also got his first ever NBL championship. Versatile swingman David Barlow contributed to the victory with his defensive presence, his championship experience proved invaluable for United’s title chase.
Goulding and Casper Ware top scored with 23 points apiece while import Casey Prather added 19 points and 11 rebounds. The 36ers were led by Shannon Shorter with 20 points, Daniel Johnson with 17 and Mitch Creek with 15 points.
Congratulations, Melbourne United from Aussiehoopla.com
COMPLETE BOX SCORE