Emmanuel Malou signs with Adelaide in NBL, wants Meteor championship first

Manny Malou might have signed with Adelaide in the NBL, but the fan favourite wants to bring Mackay a championship first.

He may be the NBL’s newest recruit and possibly next star, but Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Malou is focused on bringing Mackay a ring.

The athletic forward recently signed a deal with the Adelaide 36ers for the 2021-22 season after a dominant season for the Meteors.

Malou said he did not expect the opportunity to come so soon.

“I wanted to come into this season and work really hard, put myself in a position to maybe get a look or a workout,” he said.

“I wasn’t really expecting a signing but I’m happy I have secured it.”

Malou has averaged 19.5 points, 7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game for the Meteors this season, forming a dominant pairing with future NBL opponent Harry Froling.

He said the program in Mackay, and coach Joel Khalu’s involvement, had accelerated his growth as a player.

“Playing for Joel has helped me position myself in the right way to be successful,” he said.

“This is a program that brings exposure and acts like a launching pad for the NBL, it’s allowed me to show my inside and outside game, show my skill level, and has helped teams notice me.”

Malou will finish the season with the Meteors with the side on track to secure a home final.

“I’m definitely want to finish off the season here, we’ve put in work and we’re chasing a championship,” he said.

“I’d love to come back after the NBL season finishes, I feel like I’ve built a really good foundation in the community and with the people here.

“I love it here, it’s a great place for basketball but also for all the connections and family community feel.”