Although we first broke the news in April, with his season overseas now complete, the Melbourne United can finally announce that experienced Australian guard Daniel Dillon has signed a one-year deal.
The 31-year-old Melbourne-born guard will return to return to the city where his basketball career began. Dillon debuted in the NBL in 2009 for the Melbourne-based South Dragons as a developmental player but has played previously for Melbourne (2011-12) when they were previously known as the Tigers.
”Being able to come back to my hometown of Melbourne is very exciting for me and I’m happy to be back,” Dillon said following the announcement.
”There’s a real buzz about United that’s been happening the last couple of years and I think it’s a great time to be back with the club.”
Dillon was posting 11.9 points during his recent stint with the Hiroshima Dragonflies, the Japanese side.
Dillon, in preparation for the NBL season, is currently playing for Kilsyth Cobras in the SEABL and is more than excited return to play in the NBL, something he shared with Aussie Hoopla while playing in Europe.
“Of course I want to come back to Australia. It’s the best country in the world! But I can come back whenever I want because it’s my home… right now I’m focusing on my career” Dillon said last year, prior to signing with Melbourne.
Dillon is expected to have his debut appearance next month when his side hosts the Chinese national team which will be embarking on an Australian tour prior to the NBL season.
United CEO Vince Crivelli was excited about United being able to be a part the Chinese team’s Australia tour.
”It’s exciting – not often does a NBL team get to play a national team, and fans can expect to see an engaging and entertaining spectacle, which is what we are known for” said Crivelli.
Team China will also be taking on the Brisbane Bullets at Gold Coast as part of their Australian tour.
Dillon will slot in well in the backup guard spot at United, he will be the 9th contacted player on the team, joining Chris Goulding, David Andersen, Majok Majok, Josh Boone, David Barlow, Tai Wesley, Craig Moller and Kyle Adnam.
Dillon completes Melbourne’s local roster, with the team now having only two spots remaining which will be used on import players.
Visit our NBL Free Agent Tracker for more information on signings and rumours during the NBL off-season.