Hot Cole's fired up for United debut

Photo: United Media.

He's only been in Australia for less than a week, but Melbourne United recruit Cole Anthony is already making an impact on the Hungry Jack's NBL.

Over the weekend, during United's pre-season Throwdown with South East Melbourne, the NBA point guard was 'talking trash' with NBL Next Star Dash Daniels. Days later, he's making his presence felt on the court, with his skill, energy and commitment to doing whatever his team needs to win.

"[Today] it was pretty fun, it was my first time bumping with everybody and it felt pretty good," Anthony said during Monday's media availability.

"We've got a talented group. It was fun to get some [time on court] with Josh [Oduro] and LT (Luke Travers). Those are two talented dudes that I was excited to play with coming in and it was great we got a chance today.

"We're working some kinks out, but we're gonna be alright.

"[One thing is for sure] I'm here to put my body on the line for the team, [because] we have a group that could play at a high level.

"I'm excited to get on the court with these guys. I know we got [our] next game on Saturday, I'll be here grinding until then."

Head coach Jacob Chance confirmed the plan was to have Anthony available to take on Cairns on Saturday night.

In the lead-up, Anthony and former Orlando Magic teammate Joe Ingles will continue to work on their chemistry.

Although Ingles was sidelined due to a lower leg injury he sustained during Saturday's loss to South East Melbourne, Anthony explained how important the five-time Olympian has been in his transition to United.

"It's great to be alongside Joe, he's just a heck of a personality and just a great human being," Anthony said.

"He talks a lot of mess, but at the end of the day, he's probably one of the best dudes I ever met.

"We talk a lot and [did so] to me a few times today. He kept telling me to keep my dribble alive, because sometimes I'll get deep [in the paint] and someone from the other side will come across and force me to pick the ball up early.

"It's about getting in there, being more patient and maybe taking that extra dribble, and then shoot [if need be]."

Anthony and United open their Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season against Adelaide on Saturday, September 19 at John Cain Arena.