Melbourne sign national star

Melbourne United have added U20s National Champion and young Australian rising star, Joel Foxwell to their NBL25 roster as a DP. 

Foxwell was a training player for United in NBL24, and this season will get a chance to go head-to-head with his brother, Owen Foxwell on their crosstown rival team - the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

“It’s an opportunity to play and help the team win which has always been my goal since coming on board with United. Last year was a major grind, it was a lot of hard work but now to become a Development Player makes it all worth it," Foxwell told United Media. 

“It’s been awesome to learn from the elite guys we have at this club. They’ve all been tremendously helpful, making my journey easier every step of the way by teaching me how to be a pro.

“It’s the first step of my journey, this is where I wanted to be and I can’t wait to make the most of this opportunity.”

Foxwell's championship experience goes beyond his U20s National trophy, with the Big V Youth League title under his belt as well.  

The 6'1 guard most recently played in the 2024 NBL1 South season with the Sandringham Sabres, where he averaged 10.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3 assists per game. Foxwell played alongside United veteran Shea Ili. 

“As a training player with us for the past year, the biggest growth area has been the defensive side of the ball. Everyone has seen across his junior career his immense scoring talent. He’s gifted with his touch and three-ball and pace, but we’ve been really pleased with his defensive ability and physicality," United head coach, Dean Vickerman said. 

“Spending the offseason working closely with Shea Ili at Sandringham has only further improved his ability to impact the game defensively.

“At his size, one of the attributes that is common among the guys to have had  success in this league is the ability to use your quickness to impact the game at both ends."

Foxwell completes United's NBL25 DP signings alongside Campbell Blogg, Tom Koppens and Akech Aliir.