Winning DNA: Has Melbourne found its missing piece?

A champion with the JackJumpers just two seasons ago, Doyle brings title-winning experience to a Melbourne side built for success.

United have made the Finals in seven of the last eight seasons, but have fallen just short in recent campaigns.

Now, with Doyle in the mix, they might have the missing piece to go all the way.

“You look at the lineup, with a big man still to be added in, it’s all guys who have won and produced in big moments in the NBL and overseas,” Doyle said via United’s website.

“I think when we all get in the gym together, it’s going to be something great.

“Having so much winning experience on this team gives me a lot of confidence, knowing that I’m going to be competing alongside guys who have won already.”

Together with Chris Goulding and Shea Ili, the trio have notched more wins than any other group over the past three seasons. It is a proven winning combination.

“I think once we gel and get everything going together, it’ll make things easier for everyone on the team,” Doyle said.

“You play to win, you play to compete for championships. It’s the most important part about playing the game.”

Doyle links up with Dash Daniels, Tyson Walker, Finn Delany and former JackJumpers teammate Fabijan Krslovic as new additions to United for NBL26. On the flip side, Ian Clark and Matthew Dellavedova are among the most notable names moving on.

Dean Vickerman has proven his ability to build championship-calibre rosters. The question now is whether this United squad can recover from back-to-back Game 5 heartbreaks and finish the job?

Doyle believes it’s all about trust.

“Whether that means sacrificing or taking over in big moments, you have to be able to read those moments and adapt to the game so you’re able to do whatever it takes to win the game,” he added.

“When you look at great teams in any sport, it starts in practice. From the pre-season onwards, it takes everyone pushing each other towards a shared goal of being better every day.”

Melbourne United will launch their pre-season campaign with a home clash against the Cairns Taipans at Casey Basketball Stadium on Thursday, August 21.

Read the full story here >> Winning the only priority for Doyle