NBL: Kyle Bowen, Melbourne United star, chases second title after Perth success
Melbourne forward Kyle Bowen may have already won an NBL championship with semi-final opponent Perth, but says a title in blue would “absolutely” taste sweeter with United.
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Melbourne forward Kyle Bowen may have won an NBL championship with semi-final opponent Perth, but says a title in blue would “absolutely” taste sweeter as his contribution to the team grows.
In his third NBL season – and second in Melbourne – Bowen, 24, has taken on a heavier load for United, especially with star Jack White managing a niggling back injury throughout the year.
Tasked with making an impact on a well-oiled United machine, the next man up has produced a career best season with the confidence instilled from coach Dean Vickerman.
“Dean is such a defensive minded coach, when you’re playing under him you’ve got to be super locked in and focused on that end,” Bowen told Code Sports.
“I’ve just become a more intelligent basketball player, from Dean to our whole coaching staff have been instrumental in my growth over the past two years.
“So just being that complimentary piece for Whitey (Jack White) when he’s out of the game and seeing if I can come in with energy, bring the crowd into it and make an impact.
“I’m trying to be more aggressive when I can.”
The United unit have been consistent contenders in recent years, with Bowen part of the heartbreaking five game championship loss last year.
And while Melbourne “came so close” in 2024, he says he has adapted a “sponge” approach around the top talent on the roster, especially within those high pressure campaigns.
“Delly (Matthew Dellevadova), CG (Chris Goulding), IC (Ian Clark), we’ve got NBL and NBA champions in the building so there’s not a lack of resources to grow from.”
Playing for two of the powerhouse clubs of the competition in United and the Wildcats, Bowen said both organisations’ expectations and standards are always set high, no matter what time of the season.
“There’s no added pressure because it’s like playoff basketball every game where every possession is so important,” the developing forward said.
On Saturday night, he’ll return to his old stomping ground RAC Arena, now hostile enemy territory, where he first experienced success in his debut NBL season, for game two of the semi finals series.
Grateful to Perth for taking the chance on him all those years ago, the Western Australian built his foundations within the Wildcats system as a teen.
“I had a different role (at Perth),” Bowen said, “I learnt a lot and it got me prepared for when I came to a club and was ready to make a natural impact on the team.”
“So I’m very fortunate to have those few years (with Perth), they really helped my journey and my experience along the way.”
But after Chris Goulding’s 41-point heroics led United to a 12-point game one win on Thursday night, Bowen will be hoping for a clean sweep series win against his hometown heroes and former championship teammates.
“We’re so locked in this year.”
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