Dellavedova adds new element to fierce rivalry

Dellavedova adds new element to fierce rivalry

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

matthew dellavedova

sydney kings

melbourne united

Sydney's Matthew Dellavedova will face his former side Melbourne for the first time on Wednesday night.

The rivalry between the Sydney Kings and Melbourne United is one of the biggest in the Hungry Jack's NBL.

And the next chapter will take place tonight, with two added elements.

The first being that this fixture will be part of the inaugural Ignite Cup.

The second being the major off-season switch by NBA champion Matthew Dellavedova from United to the Kings.

“I had three great years (at United), they were amazing to me and the family, I made a lot of great friends and I wish them nothing but the best,” Dellavedova said to CODE Sports.

“But I’m pumped to be in Sydney, it’s a great opportunity and I’m excited to be here.

"Every game counts as one though, soI'm just focusing on the game itself [and getting the win for my team]."

One that knows all about the rivalry is three-time NBL champion Vickerman, who has coached United in 44 of these fixtures, winning on 28 occasions.

"Anytime we go and play the Kings, especially up there, they generate a fair bit of pace with the athletes they have [on their squad]," Vickerman said during United's media availability.

"[While] they haven't shot the three-ball well, they have a lot of shooters on that team [capable of making shots].

"We're expecting a real battle, [especially] after the improvements they made from game one to game two.

"So it's on us if we want to keep this winning streak alive."

Tonight's Round 4 Ignite Cup game tips off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.

Why the Ignite Cup matters

‍- Biggest payday ever: $400,000 in prize money, with 60% going directly to players.

- Real stakes: Every game (not including the Final) counts towards the regular season ladder.

- Midweek blockbusters: Wednesday nights have unmissable moments.

- Ignited gameday experience: New entertainment, new energy, and a new way to experience basketball.

- Every quarter counts: A world-first scoring system ensures constant intensity, with teams battling for ladder points in every quarter, not just the final score.

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