Training Time Invaluable Before SINA Event Says Wright

Melbourne Hustlers star Tom Wright says the team getting together for a training session before the SINA Elite League this weekend was “invaluable”.

Wright, Andrew Steel, Greg Hire and Tom Jervis had a gruelling two hour training on Tuesday night, before the team left for China where this weekend’s event will be held. Coach Dave Biwer ran the session and put the players through their paces to prepare for the tournament.

With some of the world’s best 3×3 teams also competing in the SINA Elite League, Wright says the ability to spend some time on the court together before the event was vitally important.

“It’s invaluable,” Wright said of training.

“So much of this game is experience. The top teams in the world have played together for years and years and they know their games inside and out. While Andrew, Greg and I have played together quite a bit, getting Tommy on the court was super important.

“It’ll be tough, there’s some really talented teams, some of the best in the world. Really experienced teams and teams who have won World Tours before. It’ll be a really good challenge but we are ready.”

The #MelbourneHustlers putting in WORK before @SGL3x3 💪@FIBA3x3 @NBL @greg4hire pic.twitter.com/wZdkVLCG4B

— 3x3Hustle (@3x3Hustle) December 18, 2019

Wright is excited at what Jervis can bring to the 3×3 court, believing the three-time NBL champion will fit perfectly in the shortened format.

“He has got a really good IQ,” Wright said.

“I hadn’t played with him before but his basketball IQ is super high. He will pick up the game easily, he is super tough, he hustles, he works hard and I think that’s a non-negotiable when you play this game.

“It’s so much tougher than five on five, so I think he will be awesome and fit in straight away.”

One of the world’s biggest 3×3 events, the Sina Elite League is an international tournament which features some of the globe’s best teams and players.

The number two ranked FIBA3x3 team in the world Liman will also be competing at the Sina Elite League, along with the highly talented squads of NY Harlem, Inanomo, Enerskin, Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy and more. Former NBA player Maurice Ager will also be playing in the event.

Schedules and game times will be released shortly.