Moran represents Surf Coast on the national stage

ONE of the Surf Coast’s top basketball prospects has had his first taste of NBL1 action in Geelong, stoking excitement around what he and his side are capable of this season.

22-year-old Jack Moran made his season debut as a Geelong United Supercat at the Geelong Arena last Saturday against Bendigo Braves, following a brief six-minute stint against Kilsyth in round one.

Moran, who contributed an additional six minutes against the Braves in round two, finished with a modest five points and a steal.

He said it was an was a surreal moment to perform in front of a sold-out crowd on the home floor at the NBL1 level.

“That was a special moment, it was really cool to be a part of,” Moran said.

“It was a packed house, it was loud, it was good to get an ‘and-1’, I really needed that.

“Knowing that we’re representing Geelong, it feels like we’re representing a whole lot of people, and it felt like we had a lot of support on the night despite the loss.”

A member of Surfcoasters Basketball Club, Moran impressed last season a part of Geelong United’s Youth League side Corio Bay Stingrays, but none of it would have been possible without his home-town support.

“The Surfcoasters community, which is primarily built up of families and friends that I am really close with, has been instrumental with my growth as a player,” he said.

“Without them supporting me in learning the sport, I would not be where I am today and I’m super grateful for that.

“Following last season, Grant [Wallace] pretty much approached me and said he had a spot on the team for me.

“It all happened really quickly but it’s been awesome so far.”

The Supercats enter their round three double-header against Sandringham Sabres (tonight) at home and Casey away with zero wins from their first two outings, but Moran remained adamant his side still has plenty to give.

“We know we’re a good team, we know we have a lot of good players, and we’ve gelled really well as a new team as well even with a few out the last time out,” Moran concluded.

“We have 20 more games left this season; we know our best can compete with the best in this league.”

Head to geelongunitedbasketball.com.au to purchase NBL1 tickets.