Melbourne Utd claim NBL championship

MELBOURNE United are the 2021 champions of the NBL.

United survived a late scare to complete a three-game sweep over the Perth Wildcats, clinching their second title since the franchise was rebranded in 2014 with the 81-76 win at John Cain Arena.

Melbourne initially charged to a 25-9 lead but the Wildcats, who are the two-time defending champions, refused to quit as they fought their way to the front in the third quarter and threatened to extend the series to a fourth game on Sunday.

It took a scoring surge from import Scotty Hopson and clutch baskets from Jock Landale to break the Wildcats’ resistance as United held their nerve down the stretch.

After a six-week stint on the road due to Victoria’s COVID-19 restrictions, United were able to seal the victory in front of 5000 supporters.

Landale who was awarded the grand final MVP, led United with 15 points and nine rebounds, while captain Chris Goulding added 14 as Melbourne completed a dominant season with the ultimate glory.

Wildcats had no answer for United as they ended their shot at a third consecutive championship.

– BY HUGH FITZPATRICK/ SEN