Former Wildcat Makes Way to Melbourne

Friday, April 21, 2023

Melbourne United has added another Australian collegiate talent to their ranks for the NBL24 season

Melbourne United has added another Australian collegiate talent to their ranks for the NBL24 season, with Kyle Bowen set to join the club after four years at St Mary’s.

St Mary’s has become a breeding ground for exceptional Australian basketball talent in recent seasons, and Bowen will join fellow Gaels Daniel Kickert, Jock Landale, Matthew Dellavedova and Patty Mills in representing Melbourne in the NBL.

Bowen made his NBL debut with the Perth at the age of 18 before heading to college, and played four games for the Wildcats in the 2018-2019 season.

“After four years of college and the American basketball experience, I’m champing at the bit to get back to Australia and play the style of game I love playing,” Bowen said.

“Melbourne United is a high calibre, big market team. I’m really forward to getting down there and getting to work with Dean (Vickerman) and this group.

“This is a special group of guys and I think we’re capable of big things this year. Winning is all that’s on my mind. I hate losing so hopefully fans can expect a lot of Ws this season.”

Over his four years at college Bowen has played 124 games for the Gaels, and has averaged 5.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game this season.

Bowen, who originally hails from Perth, will link up with fellow United signing and close friend Luke Travers for NBL24.

“We played a little bit against each other as juniors, but then played in a lot of state teams together and I just remember him being the ultimate team guy,” Travers said.

“I think his ability to adapt to whatever situation he’s put in is really going to help us. He’s a special player and he’s going to contribute straight away.

“It’s definitely cool to have a familiar face when I get here and it will be great getting to experience Melbourne alongside a guy I’ve known for a long time.”

Bowen and Travers have joined Tanner Krebs, Jo Lual-Acuil Jr, Campbell Blogg and Flynn Cameron as new players on Melbourne’s roster for NBL24, while Chris Goulding, Shea Ili, Zac Triplett and Ariel Hukporti will all return to the club.

Melbourne’s first game of the NBL24 campaign will be the season opener against local rivals South East Melbourne on September 28.