NBL1 South Talent on Show as Pelicans Visit Australia

The NBL made history this weekend, hosting the New Orleans Pelicans in the first ever NBA games played on Australian soil. Fourteen NBL1 South 2025 players hit the court across the two blockbuster matchups, proudly showcasing the league’s strength and reinforcing NBL1 South’s reputation as a launchpad for elite talent.

On Friday night, Melbourne United pushed the Pelicans before falling 107 to 97. The game carried a strong NBL1 South 2025 presence, led by NBL1 South 2025 MVP Tom Wilson (Melbourne Tigers), who scored 12 points in just under 16 minutes.

Sandringham’s NBL1 South 2025 championship presence was felt throughout the night, with Grand Final MVP Tom Koppens, Malith Machar and Fabijan Krslovic all taking the floor fresh off their title winning season. Seventeen year old Dash Daniels was outstanding, showcasing maturity beyond his years with 11 points and six rebounds, playing 27 minutes. The Sabres’ flavour extended to the sidelines as well, with Champion Head Coach David Barlow and assistant Andy Lim both part of the United coaching staff.

At stages throughout the game, United had complete NBL1 South lineups on the floor. Tanner Krebs (Ringwood Hawks) added six points, NBL1 South Select team member Nic Tata (Nunawading Spectres) contributed some early minutes, while seventeen year old Henry Sewell (Knox Raiders) capped off the night with a special opportunity to gain experience against NBA opposition.

The historic weekend continued on Sunday as South East Melbourne Phoenix took on the Pelicans, with New Orleans claiming a 127 to 92 win. Two time NBL1 South First Team member Akech Aliir (Mount Gambier Pioneers) showed his talents with 16 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks, reminding fans why he’s been a dominant force in NBL1 South.

Gorjok Gak (Casey Cavaliers) added six points and four rebounds, while NBL1 South 2024 Champion Angus Glover (Ringwood Hawks) finished with five points. Daniel Foster (Keilor Thunder) contributed six points and four rebounds, Patrick Ryan (Keilor Thunder) also featured, and Austin Foxwell (Dandenong Rangers) subbed in during the final minutes. Phoenix’s coach staff also featured Luke Brennan, current Ballarat Miners Head Coach.

The games also featured familiar names who have played in NBL1 South, including NBL1 South 2022 MVP Shea Ili (previously Sandringham Sabres), NBL1 National Finals 2024 Champion Kyle Bowen (previously Knox Raiders) and NBL1 South 2024 Champion Owen Foxwell (previously Eltham Wildcats). Campbell Blogg (Sandringham Sabres) and Ellis Biggar (Melbourne Tigers) did not feature in NBL1 South 2025 due to injury but both suited up in the weekend games.

While the spotlight was firmly on the NBL and the Pelicans’ historic visit, the presence of so many NBL1 South athletes and coaches underlined the important role the competition continues to play in Australian basketball. 

For all the latest NBL1 South updates, including player signings, coaching appointments and league news, make sure you’re following NBL1 South on Facebook and Instagram.

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