Two-time NBL winner Chris Goulding will continue his love affair with the Melbourne basketball community after signing a new three-year deal to remain in United colours.
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Goulding weighed up his options as a free agent but the Tasmanian's affection for his adopted city proved a key driver in his decision to re-sign.
"I love this city, I love the fans here and I really enjoy putting on the Melbourne United jersey and running out in front of a packed Melbourne United arena," Goulding said.
"It was a really interesting time to be discussing a new contract, as this pandemic has affected everyone in so many different ways.
"However, I was really encouraged by the journey we have been on as a club and I want to be a part of it going forward into hopefully another championship campaign."
Goulding, 31, represented Australia at the 2016 Olympics and is hopeful of being part of the Boomers squad for Tokyo next year.
United's key signing comes as rival clubs continue to bolster their rosters, with Sydney Kings snaring sharpshooting University of Miami graduate Dejan Vasiljevic on a three-year deal.
The 23-year-old former Australia junior representative ended his time in Miami ranked second in Hurricanes all-time career made three-pointers.
"I haven't played in front of Australian fans or my parents for the past four years so I'm looking forward to being home and joining a successful club with a great coaching staff and a good bunch of blokes on the team," Vasiljevic said.
Promising big man Harry Froling has joined Brisbane Bullets on a two-year deal after two seasons with Adelaide, where he was named NBL rookie of the year in 2019.
The 22-year-old, originally from Townsville, joins former 36ers teammate Anthony Drmic in Queensland.
"Harry is another quality signing for us as we continue to build our roster for the upcoming season," Bullets coach Andrej Lemanis said.
"Harry's ability to stretch the floor will certainly provide versatility in our frontcourt."
Adelaide have signed power forward Keanu Pinder - the son of two-time NBL champion Kendal 'Tiny' Pinder - on a one-year deal.
Australian Associated Press