Melky delivers on giant promise in Hustle

James Melky enjoyed a fine season with Ellas Titans, before the DBA cancelled the 2019-20 Challenge campaign due to the coronavirus pandemic NATHANIEL CHAMBERS

YOUNG Alice Springs product James Melky has made a big impression in his first year in the Darwin Basketball Association in an Ellas Titans team full of Top End basketball stars.

Melky grew up in Alice Springs, where he learnt to play, while discovering his talent and passion for the game.

He has since made a name for himself representing the Northern Territory at Nationals and, now at age 22, by playing in the Boundless Possible NT 3x3 sides in the National Pro Hustle.

The young talent splits his five-a-side game time between the Titans in Darwin and the Magic Basketball Club in Alice.

“I come for up for a couple of weeks at a time to play with Ellas, they’re a club that have really supported me and my development,” Melky told the torian.

Sunday Terri

“I had played with a couple of the guys before, so it was really easy to come in and play with them and has provided me with accommodation and a coaching job while I’m here.

“Ben (Streeter), Deola (D’Brown) and Shack (Willie Shackleford) and I trained together outside the club. They took a real interest in my playing, which was a great experience.

“It was also amazing to play in the 3x3 Hustle, the level of talent in every team was immense.

“Every game was hard fought, and we did really well getting quarters and semis over both tournaments.”

The versatile shooting guard has played in both the under-23s and men’s league for the Titans this season putting on an impressive 19point display in his League debut against Palmerston Power.

Melky’s aims are to play more 3x3 and to one day take his game to Europe, namely Italy.

Ellas president Harrison Lee-Schell was impressed with how quickly Melky had emerged within the club, citing his versatility as one of his biggest talents.

“He’s been incredible for us, despite his age he’s been a level-headed and versatile player for us and is also just a great kid to have around,” Lee-Schell said.