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NBA hopeful Dash Daniels has quit Melbourne United, but will remain in the NBL next season.
Daniels, a NBL Next Star, the brother of NBA guard Dyson Daniels and one of the country’s best young prospects, has opted for a fresh start, his decision coming after an encouraging rookie season with United.
“I have nothing but respect for Melbourne United. It’s a highly professional organisation from top to bottom, and I’ve valued every part of my journey with the club,” Dash Daniels said.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead, but I’ll always look back on my time with Melbourne United with amazing memories and true appreciation.”
The defensive-orientated, 196cm guard has been linked with a move to cross-town rivals South East Melbourne Phoenix, while there has also been interest from interstate clubs.
His ultimate aim is to follow his older brother Dyson into the NBA. Dyson was a starting guard for the Atlanta Hawks last season, having signed a four-year, $153.5 million rookie contract extension.
Dash Daniels, 18, was initially considered a high draft pick in this year’s NBA draft, but pulled out in late April. ESPN has him slated as the No.40 pick in next year’s NBA draft – should he enter.
Liam Santamaria, the NBL’s general manager of Next Star recruitment, said the league was working with Daniels to find him a new home.
“Following discussions with all parties, we believe this is the best path forward for everyone involved,” Santamaria said.
“We would like to thank Melbourne United for supporting Dash’s development across the past 18 months. They are a first-class organisation with a strong track record in developing young talent. Dash has grown significantly during his time with Melbourne and, thanks largely to that great work, I’m confident he is well-placed for a strong second season as a Next Star.”
Daniels had 11 starts in 35 games last season. While he averaged only 4.2 points per game, he had a 14-point outing against the New Zealand Breakers in round one, and nine points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals against the Phoenix in round two.
An elite defensive hound, much like Dyson who has been dubbed “The Great Barrier Thief” by US commentators, Dash became more of a rotation player as United’s season progressed, and still has much work to do on his shooting technique.
The addition of NBA veteran Joe Ingles meant Daniels’ minutes could have been squeezed next season under new United coach Jacob Chance.
United chief executive Nick Truelson said the club enjoyed working with Daniels.
“Dash’s time with United was the result of a fantastic commitment from the club and the Daniels family across multiple years to best prepare the guard for his ultimate goal of making it to the NBA,” Truelson said.
“Dash regularly showcased his growing skill set at both ends of the floor, which is a testament to his readiness to contribute at the senior level, and the strength of the Next Star program.”
Chance is at NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, looking to lure two perimeter players and a big man to finalise United’s roster.
Former NBA centre Jesse Edwards could return, having averaged 13.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks a game last season.
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