Travers Impressive in First-Up Performance

New Melbourne United signing Luke Travers is playing in his second career NBA Summer League, and the former Perth Wildcat has shown just how much he’s improved since last year in a strong opening performance.

The draft-and-stash Cleveland forward played a crucial role in his side’s four-point win over Brooklyn. In 27 minutes off the bench he added 13 points, six rebounds and a defensively intimidating four blocks.

Although he showcased his full repertoire of skills in his first game of the tournament, Travers is still looking to contribute more as the Vegas showcase continues.

“I came into this with a little bit more experience, so it made it easier out there,” he said post-game.

“I was still nervous, but once the game’s going you get used to it.

“Like I said last year, there’s a lot of room for improvement and I’m looking forward to keeping that going.

“I think I can rebound the ball a little bit more – I know I had six, but that can definitely be up there a little bit more. That sort of brings out everything, getting out in transition to use my passing ability and get on the rim as well. I think those are the main things I’m going to keep focusing on.”

Travers will be looking to join an already strong host of former NBL talent in the NBA in the near future, and looks at the jump forward made by former United big Jack White as inspiration for his own path.

White earned a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets off the back of his Summer League performances with the side 12 months ago.

Since then he has earned an NBA championship ring and is reported to have signed a two-year deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

“Going from even the last couple of years watching him play, that’s something I enjoy doing,” Travers said of the former United star.

“I look to do to the same sort of things – bring the energy, crash the boards and then play hard on the defensive end.”

Travers and the Cavaliers will next take to the Summer League floor against Toronto on Monday, July 10 at 5:30am AEST.