NBL: Matthew Dellavedova relishing ‘intense, physical’ battle against South East Melbourne

Matthew Dellavedova is itching to get his first Throwdown under his belt, with the occasion promising to be a feisty battle between the two Melbourne teams.

Matthew Dellavedova is excited about an “intense, physical battle” ahead of his first Throwdown for Melbourne United against the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Dellavedova is no stranger to getting up in opponents’ faces and making their lives a nightmare on the court.

Watch Every Game of the 21/22 NBL Season Live & On-Demand with ESPN on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial >

It was his pit-bull-like tenacity that earned him rave reviews from everyone in the NBA, including superstar LeBron James as the duo lined up for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Having come home to Melbourne to play in the NBL – a league Dellavedova describes as “tough” – he’s looking to prove his worth and earn a ticket back to the NBA.

Although he faces a tough prospect in Melbourne’s local rivals, Dellavedova is relishing what’s to come.

“I’ve heard from a lot of the boys and the coaches what it’s going to be like,” Dellavedova said.

“I’ve heard a lot about the fans at John Cain Arena.

“I’m really looking forward to it.

“It’s going to be an intense, physical battle.

“They got us in the pre-season game the other day, so we need to get this one.”

Dellavedova spoke highly of the physical nature of the NBL. Picture: Matt King / Getty Images

The renowned physicality of the NBL has rightly enhanced the league’s global reputation, as more and more young players look to prove their mettle in Australia before trying to make their names in the NBA.

Dellavedova believes it’s become the perfect breeding ground for future superstars, and that the level of the NBL prepares youngsters for the rigours of what may lie ahead of them in America.

The 31-year-old pointed to three NBL graduates shining in the world’s most recognised basketball league as hard proof the Australian competition is doing something right.

“The NBL’s a tough league,” Dellavedova said.

“The success that you’ve seen of guys that have played in the NBL, like (Josh) Giddey, LaMelo Ball, (Jae’Sean) Tate.

“Getting used to that physicality and going to the NBA, it’s almost easier in some aspect for them.

The first Throwdown of the 2021/22 NBL season between Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix will take place on December 12, with tip-off scheduled for 1pm (AEDT).