United begins climb back to the finals

GEELONG United will not settle for anything less than a return to the NBL1 South finals, according to one of its senior men’s imports, after missing out on the top eight in 2023.

United will open its men’s campaign this Sunday, April 7 with a trip to Ballarat’s Selkirk Stadium to face its regional rivals, the Miners.

During head coach Grant Wallace’s first year at the helm of Geelong, United finished the season at .500, splitting 22 games with 11 wins and 11 losses, just one game out of the finals picture.

New United signing and import Latrell Jones said the group was extremely motivated leading into its Round 1 clash.

“We have a really good group of guys, we’ve all bought into the system, and it’s a team full of professionals.

“Already, I’ve had guys come up to me saying much they appreciate me being here. It’s only been a few practices and two scrimmages, but I just think we’re gonna click this season.”

Jones was announced as United’s newest import in December last year, joining Desmond Owili as the club’s two marquee signings during the offseason.

Jones averaged 15 points on 44 per cent shooting, with five rebounds and two steals per game during his final season with Division 1 NCAA college Nicholls State.

His best efforts were saved though for the final three games of the season, averaging 21 points at 53 per cent from the field, ultimately earning him a workout opportunity with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Having settled in and played alongside his new team already, Jones said he and the squad were ready to open up their 2024 campaign.

“We all have the same goal, we want to win, we want to play out in transition, we want to play fast and be athletic – it’s going to be really exciting for our fans.

“I’ve heard so much about the crowds we have here in Geelong, I’ve heard it gets rocking here, we can’t wait for Round 1 and even more so for Round 2 our first home game.

“Being from New Orleans, Louisiana and coming all the way to the other side of the world is just a great opportunity, I have family all over tuning in and we’re all very excited.

“We’re ready to get the ball rolling and have a great season.”

Geelong’s game against Ballarat this Sunday precedes the club’s home opener against Bendigo on Friday, April 12.

For tickets to Geelong United’s home opener against the Braves, head to tickets.geelongaustralia.com.au.