Triple threat: Melbourne targets import trio

With Finn Delany reportedly bound for Melbourne, Dean Vickerman’s roster is starting to take shape. Now, it’s onto the imports.

And according to Pete Hooley, United could be hitting the import market in a big way – targeting three key signings ahead of NBL26.

So what approach will the reigning Championship Series runners-up take?

“This is a team that looks likely to have three imports and two locals on marquee money - Chris Goulding and Finn Delany,” ESPN’s Olgun Uluc said.

“From what I understand, it’ll (one signing) be a high-level import center.

“Delany isn’t someone you can pile the offensive load onto. Melbourne need an offensive anchor – playmaking big, elite on both ends. It was one of their Achilles heels in the Championship Series last year.”

Then comes Ian Clark, and who could forget the impact he had in the Finals?

Clark averaged 20.5 points a game in eight post-season appearances, but he’s still to be locked in for NBL26.

“Why not Ian Clark? That seems like such a logical, easy one—for both player and team. Is there a reason that deal hasn’t been done yet?” Jack Heverin pondered.

“Because they’re going down the three-import path for the first time in a while, that deal isn’t done yet,” Hooley said.

“There is mutual interest between Melbourne United and Ian Clark in coming to some sort of agreement.

“They’re being patient. It’s no surprise they’ll need a dynamic center - someone impactful on both ends. But also a shooting guard who can play alongside Chris Goulding. They’re waiting to see who that might be.

“If that path includes Ian Clark? Great. We saw how unbelievable he was in the post-season. He could easily start. If they find a better-suited backup combo guard, maybe Ian comes off the bench - still as a Sixth Man of the Year contender.”

“There’s a world where United land a high-level starting guard import and say to Clark: ‘Look, it might be a different role. Maybe a slight pay cut. But we still want you’,” Uluc added.

United have secured the signatures of Dash Daniels, as a Next Star, Tom Wilson and former JackJumper Fabijan Krslovic for next season, with the key exits of Matthew Dellavedova (Sydney), Flynn Cameron (Adelaide) and Rob Loe (New Zealand).

Jack White declined his player option with the club in March, pursuing overseas opportunities.