Matthew Dellavedova, the standout player for Melbourne United in the recent best-of-five championship series, showcased both his talent and sportsmanship. Despite his team's defeat to the Illawarra Hawks, Dellavedova's actions left a lasting impression. That series, which ended on a game-winning goal from the Hawks’ Patrick Kane in Game 6, featured Dellavedova leading his Cleveland Cavaliers to a pair of playoff-stealing wins. In an unexpected move, he presented his Most Valuable Player award to a rival.
Dellavedova's Role in the Series
During the championship series, Dellavedova was United’s most effective player. His leadership helped his side secure a game-three victory on the road in Wollongong, lifting his team to a 2-1 series lead. As it turns out, that game personally ended with an 83-77 victory, but not without a valiant effort on his part. United took the win in game one, 96-88. Their run of good fortune in game two was extended all the way through an exhilarating 102-100 conclusion over the Illawarra Hawks.
As much as he brought success to the Cavaliers, Dellavedova ran into adversity in the championship-clinching game five. He ended with just five points on 2/6 shooting and didn’t hit a single free-throw. He proved his playmaking prevalence with a team-high seven assists.
An Uncharacteristic Performance
Dellavedova, who already owns an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers, struggled to be himself in the last game. That’s despite the fact that his struggle on the court was so apparent that he was limited to just five points. Even so, his leadership and steadiness over the series made him a default choice as Most Valuable Player.
In an incredible display of sportsmanship, as soon as that buzzer sounded, Dellavedova gave the MVP trophy to Illawarra’s Will Hickey. Towards the end of proceedings, he paid tribute to Hickey’s efforts by saying ‘Davo, this is yours’ and pointing the trophy in Hickey’s direction. This act showed the world both Dellavedova’s great humility and deep respect for his opponents.
The Outcome of the Championship Series
Melbourne United’s path to the championship series was paved through a grueling and fierce semifinal match up with the Illawarra Hawks. After jumping out to an early series lead winning games one and two, United was unable to hold their advantage. The series wrapped up with United dropping the last match, dooming their championship chances.
On the court, Dellavedova’s contributions were instrumental in their wins, and his unselfish act is that much more meaningful now. By honoring Hickey’s efforts and deferring the spotlight, Dellavedova showed brilliant sportsmanship.
