PRESSURE OFF IN GIDDEY RECORD
JOSH Giddey’s historic maiden NBA triple-double was met with as much relief as excitement.
Giddey became the youngest player in NBA history to record a tripledouble with his 17-point, 14assist and 13-rebound game against Dallas last week.
The Melbourne-born guard (19 years 84 days) surpassed the record held by former NBL Rookie of the Year and Next Star LaMelo Ball (19yr140d).
NBL great Chris Anstey expects Giddey to hold the youngest player triple-double record for some time.
“The most famous person to hold the triple-double record was LeBron James and he held it for 12 years,” Anstey said.
“I tend to think that Josh’s record might stand for a little while now. I know he would have been feeling that pressure, because he came so close so many times.
“You only get one chance to do something historical when it comes to being the youngest.”
GIVE GIBBO A GO
COULD we see veteran guard Adam Gibson make a comeback to the NBL court at some stage this season?
Gibson hasn’t officially retired and is currently working at the South East Melbourne Phoenix in coaching and high performance.
While I’m told the 35-yearold is focused on life after basketball at the moment, don’t rule out a return, especially in these Covid times.
MAKER MONEY:
I’M told the main stumbling block to NBL clubs signing former NBA and Boomers forward Thon Maker is money. It’s understood Maker’s management want upwards of $300,000, while there is talk the former Boomer is being pitched as a package with former No.1 draft pick Anthony Bennett.
Clubs remain reluctant to sign Maker, including Tasmania who have the cap space, but NBL legend Chris Anstey would love to see Thon in the NBL.
“He just needs to play,” Anstey said.
“Play for low dollars to exhibit your worth and that will develop you and put you in a position to succeed.”