Melbourne United add another big signing after securing Shawn Long from Breakers

Melbourne United is reloading for another run at the NBL title with the club set to sign monstrous former Philadelphia 76er Shawn Long.

Shawn Long of the Breakers reacts after scoring during the Round 12 NBL match between the Adelaide 36ers and the New Zealand Breakers at Titanium Security Arena in Adelaide, Friday, January 4, 2019. (AAP Image/David Mariuz) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

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Melbourne United is reloading for another run at the NBL title with the club set to sign monstrous former Philadelphia 76er Shawn Long.

Long revealed on Twitter he would depart rival NBL club New Zealand for the 2018 champions, eyeing a tandem with fellow new import Melo Trimble.

“Everyone is blowing me up. I’ll just go ahead and say I’m excited to sign with @MelbUnitedHQ! Thank you @NZBreakers for the opportunity and support last season. I look forward to joining one of my good friends @_STAYMELO this upcoming @NBL season. Let’s go!!!!!”

Shawn Long is set to sign with Melbourne United. Picture: AAP Image/David Rowland

He later Tweeted: “Haven’t signed yet will next week. Thanks everyone for the support. Hoping I can help the club reach every goal it wishes to achieve this year.

Second only to NBL MVP Andrew Bogut in rebounds (9.1rpg) and blocks (1.5bpg) last season, the 205cm 116kg behemoth is almost the complete package.

A dominant defender who is a bull around the basket and possesses offensive range out to the three-point line, he will complement Trimble — who signed as Casper Ware’s replacement earlier this week — and join stars Mitch McCarron and Chris Goulding in what promises to be a potent offence.

United recruit Melo Trimble will form a potent duo with Long. Picture: Michael Dodge/Getty Images

United was shattered at the loss of star guard Ware to the Sydney Kings, but, after preaching patience to fans, has been rewarded with a pair of genuine stars to take into next season.

Long’s move probably spells the end of championship centre Josh Boone in United colours.

It remains to be seen whether United brings back import DJ Kennedy.

Melbourne United was unable to confirm it had secured Long’s signature on Sunday.

Originally published as Melbourne United add another big signing after securing Shawn Long from Breakers