From rivals to teammates, Gaze excited for Select experience

With NBL1 South’s Under 25 Select Team bringing together talent from across the conference, Monday night presents a rare scenario. Familiar opponents become teammates, and rivalries are replaced by a shared purpose.

For Mason Gaze, it is a shift he is eager to embrace.

After years of competing against many of the same names, the Melbourne Tigers guard now finds himself on the same side, stepping into a new environment with players he knows well from across the league.

“It’s a privilege to be selected as part of this team,” Gaze said. “To play alongside other great young players in the league is something I’m really excited for.”

“A lot of these guys I’ve played against for so many years, so to now be on the same side as them should be good fun.”

That familiarity extends beyond competition, with Gaze looking forward to reconnecting with players he has previously shared the floor with, including Marach Marach.

“I’m really excited to share the floor with Marach,” he said. “I played briefly with him at Victoria University, so to play together again is exciting. He’s a highlight waiting to happen and a workhorse. A great teammate to have.”

While the names may be familiar, the environment is not. A new group, a new system and limited preparation time create a unique challenge, one Gaze sees as a valuable opportunity.

“The biggest takeaway is just to have the best time possible and learn as much as I can,” he said. “Playing a different style, with a completely different team, can only lead to positives and a lot of learning experiences.”

The challenge only increases with international opposition, bringing a different level of physicality and structure.

“They always play super physical and hard,” Gaze said. “It will be enjoyable to go up against a talented team who will be well coached and determined to win.”

Early signs have been positive, with the group quickly building chemistry.

“Wednesday’s training was a lot of fun,” he said. “It was great meeting all the boys and wearing the same jersey. The energy was high and everyone is excited for what’s ahead.”

With a strong crowd expected at Courtside – Port Melbourne, the stage is set for a memorable night.

“All the boys are super pumped,” Gaze said. “Hopefully it’s a game to remember.”

For Gaze, the focus is simple. Embrace the moment, enjoy the experience and make the most of the opportunity.