NBL Reps Impress Spurs Coach

Matt Nielsen is one of a raft of coaches flying the flag for the NBL in the NBA, and during Summer League he’s been handed the reins to one of the most intriguing sides in the competition - the San Antonio Spurs.

Nielsen’s Spurs competed in the California Classic prior to heading to Las Vegas, where all eyes turned to the debut of number one draft pick Victor Wembanyama – who was put on ice after a pair of impressive performances.

On Nielsen's coaching staff for the tournament are reigning NBL Coach of the Year Adam Forde, and two-time title-winning Kings assistant Fleur McIntyre, and the former NBL MVP believes both the NBL and Australian basketball have put in an impressive showing at this year’s competition.

“The league has represented itself very well,” Nielsen told NBL Media.

“Being over here for a while and hearing how people perceive it is a really good thing for Australian basketball, and they should be proud.

“The funny part of it for me is Duop Reath kicked our butts the other day and Xavier Cooks played well.

“You’re happy to see them playing well and then looking forward to getting on the same court as them in a few weeks (for the Boomers).”

One NBL alum who has had to bide his time for a Summer League opportunity this year is DJ Vasiljevic, who made an instant impact when coming on for Washington in the game against Ousmane Dieng and Oklahoma City.

The 26-year-old shooting guard dropping 14 points in the Wizards’ victory after registering a string of DNPs to open the tournament.

“I took most of my opportunities, made my threes, the coaches were very happy and we got the win,” Vasiljevic said.

“I think I prepared long enough, especially this off-season. I got to the US early and put in a lot of work, and you’ve got to trust it.

“X (Xavier Cooks) is the oldest and I’m after him, so we just try and bring that championship experience. We’re 2-2 and not competing for the Summer League title but there’s things we an teach the young guys on how to grow.”