United all in on Finn

After weeks of speculation, Melbourne United have confirmed the signing of New Zealand forward Finn Delany. 

The 29-year-old returns to the NBL after playing in the Japanese B2 league last season, where he averaged over 14 points, five rebounds and just under three assists per game. He joins United on a two-year deal with the second year being a mutual option.

“I think this is the perfect environment for me to play my best basketball,” Delany told Melbourne United Media.

“This is a new chapter for me and it’s a chapter I’m extremely excited by. There is a standard of excellence at the club from the players, coaches and staff that was really appealing to me. They’ve done a high-level job of putting themselves in a position to compete year after year, so it’s an organisation I can’t wait to join.”

Delany had previously played his entire 183-game NBL career with the Breakers, including an All-NBL Second Team selection in 2021.

“Being able to compete for wins and playing with high-level players is the most important thing for me. There’s an expectation to succeed in Melbourne and a willingness from the group to do what’s required and make the sacrifices in order to achieve that success,” he said.

Head coach Dean Vickerman is excited for the addition of the experienced big man.

“During his time in the NBL, he’s been one of the premier power forwards,” he said.

“His ability to rebound, to push the pace, to be a really good screen-setter, and then to be able to both roll to the rim or pop out to the perimeter and make plays is elite.”

Delany joins Chris Goulding, Shea Ili, Tanner Krebs, Kyle Bowen, Fabijan Krslovic, Tom Wilson and Dash Daniels as rostered players for United for the upcoming season.