Delly: so good he’s about to get his own stadium
His performances in the NBA Finals have got the world talking and soon there will be a basketball stadium in Victoria named in his honour.
Australian Matthew Dellavedova has played a key role in the end-of-season play-offs for the Cleveland Cavaliers, most recently shooting 20 points in his side’s 96-91 win over the Golden State Warriors in Wednesday’s (AEST) Game Three.
Dellavedova, thrust into the Cavs’ starting line-up in the absence of injured star Kyrie Irving, has also impressed in defence during the series, restricting the impact of Golden State’s Stephen Curry – voted the NBA’s most valuable player (MVP) this season.
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While four-time MVP LeBron James is leading Cleveland’s charge, his brilliance is almost expected, whereas Dellavedova’s star turn has come as a surprise.
Dellavedova drives to the hoop. Photo: Getty
Thousands of Cleveland fans sung Dellavedova’s name during Game Three and the chants continued in Ohio after the game.
We haven’t forgotten him in Australia, either, with social media running hot with ‘Delly’ praise after his all-effort display in Wednesday’s game.
And Dellavedova, who was discharged from hospital after being treated for dehydration following the game, will now have a stadium named after him in his hometown of Maryborough.
Central Goldfield Shire CEO Mark Johnson told 3AW: “That [Maryborough stadium] is where Matt Dellavedova learned his craft.
“And the Maryborough Basketball Association have suggested that the stadium, which is a two-court stadium, ought to be renamed after Matthew.
“He’s certainly put Maryborough on the world map, it’s just fantastic.
“Obviously there’s a process to go through [before the re-naming is official]. People [in Maryborough] are loving the ride. He’s done an amazing job.”
Dellavedova’s desperate dives onto the court for a loose ball are becoming a trademark of this Finals series and James hailed the Aussie’s toughness.
“I think he dove on the floor an NBA record six times last night,” he said.
“Last night he was on the ground again after the game in hospital so you can probably say seven times. He gives us everything he has and we all appreciate it as his brothers lining up beside him.”
When quizzed by reporters if Australia should bestow a knighthood on Dellavedova, James laughed and said: “Whatever that guy wants or needs, I’m all for it.”
Cleveland coach David Blatt hopes Dellavedova is fit enough to play most of Game Four on Friday (AEST).
“The tank is low and we’re doing everything we can to fill it back up,” he said.
Cleveland lead the best-of-seven-match series 2-1.