In the Post – Monday October 11

Catch up on all the latest headlines from around the basketball world in today’s edition of In the Post.

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Roth connects with Bellamy

Tasmania JackJumpers coach Scott Roth is learning from the best, getting advice from NRL coaching legend Craig Bellamy ahead of the JackJumpers’ inaugural season.

"I talked to Craig Bellamy before I came down to see some of the things he had done with his team and (it) just became a no-brainer to me, a chance for us to give back to the community," Roth said, via The Advocate.

Reath sees NBA path in Illawarra

Illawarra Hawks boom recruit Duop Reath believes he is an NBA talent, and he thinks the Hawks’ team success under coach Brian Goorjian could help him get there.

“The main objective is always the team first and individual goals have to come after the team. I feel like I can see an (NBA) pathway but, at the same time, I want to really work on myself as a player and be the best player I can be. If that stuff comes it comes, if it doesn't, you just keep working,” Reath told the Illawarra Mercury. 

Phoenix and United to be fully vaccinated

All South East Melbourne Phoenix and Melbourne United players and staff will be fully vaccinated in time for the season according to the ABC.

“All of Melbourne's WNBL and NBL teams will also be vaccinated in time for the start of their seasons,” Peter Lusted wrote.

Taipans DP to prove he belongs

Cairns Taipans development player Brayden Inger is ready to repay the faith shown in him by his new coach Adam Forde.

“I’ve been speaking to Fordey, he believes in my development and I think that’s the best step – being involved in an association that believes in you,” Inger said, via the Cairns Post.

“My personal goal is to get on the court and prove that I can bring something to this team and show what I’ve got and embrace every opportunity I have.”

Tall Blacks coach says veterans committed to program

New Zealand national team coach Pero Cameron believes Tall Blacks veterans such as Tom Abercrombie, Rob Loe, Tai Webster, Corey Webster and Isaac Fotu remain committed to the program, even if professional team contracts means they miss upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

“It’s hard with all the doubt and changes, and they’ve got to take care of their families. We understand that. But they’re all keen to be part of that Olympic stuff going forward, and I’m sure they’re committed to the next cycle. We’ll see how that fits in with their lives,” Cameron told Stuff.

Brondello’s Mercury fall in game one

Sandy Brondello’s Phoenix Mercury lost game one of the WNBA Finals on Monday morning, with the Chicago Sky securing the 91-77 win.

Opal Alanna Smith played four minutes for the Mercury.