Cole and Hickey break down Select Team talent

The upcoming NBL1 South Under 25 Select Team clash has been previewed on the NBL1 Show, with Matt Hickey and Bec Cole highlighting the talent set to take on Team China Under 18 Men on Monday night.

“There’s something really exciting about this,” Hickey said. “You’ve got some awesome NBL1 names on that list, and it’s a great initiative for the league.”

Cole pointed to the opportunity for the Select Team group to step onto a bigger stage, while also outlining how different pieces of the roster may work together.

“Just some really young, exciting talent that’s coming up,” she said.

 “To be able to represent the South versus a Chinese national youth team, these guys are going to be excited to play on a bigger stage.”

Among the names discussed was Harrison Hornery, who is averaging 13.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists this season, with his versatility expected to open up the floor.

“He brings just that elite, versatile stretch big,” Cole said. 

“He’s been consistently efficient and because he can shoot from outside, that allows space for guards like Austin Shelley and Ryan Rapp to really get into the paint.”

Cole also highlighted Kobe Williamson as a key presence inside, currently posting 15.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.

“At 6 foot 8, he’s a rim protector. He gets it done inside,” she said.

“For a youth national opposition team to try defend, as well as score against someone like that, that’s going to be interesting.”

Hickey added Elliott Brown as another name to watch, with the Sandringham guard averaging 17.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists.

“This guy is unbelievable. I think he’s developing into something seriously special,” he said.

He also noted the added intrigue of players coming together from across the competition.

“I’m intrigued to see if there’s a bit of internal scouting going on,” Hickey said. 

“There’s going to be guys playing with and against each other that they usually compete against.”

The NBL1 South Select Team will take on China’s Under 18 Men on Monday night at Courtside - Port Melbourne, with tip off set for 7:00pm.