United star to return

Saturday, October 21, 2023

Jo Lual-Acuil Jr comes back into the United squad, but Matthew Dellavedova will sit out a pair of Round 4 games.

Melbourne United star Jo Lual-Acuil Jr will make his season debut on Friday night against the Illawarra Hawks.

The 2022 MVP finalist has been sidelined for United’s first five games due to wrist surgery undertaken in the off-season.

Lual-Acuil Jr averaged 16.6 points, 9.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocks during the 2021/22 season, establishing himself as one of the NBL’s most dangerous players. He is set to boost an already impressive Melbourne squad who has started the season 4-1.

While Lual-Acuil Jr comes back into the squad, Matthew Dellavedova will sit out United’s pair of Round 4 games, following a concussion sustained in Sunday’s game against Brisbane.

A further update on Dellavedova will be provided ahead of Round 5.

Rob Loe will remain in the lineup to replace Dellavedova.

United faces the Hawks on Friday night at 7:30pm AEDT live on ESPN via Kayo Sports.