Former NBA guard Cole Anthony has signed a one-year contract with Melbourne United ahead of the 2026-27 NBL season, marking the next chapter of his professional career after six years in the NBA. The 25-year-old joins Melbourne following a stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, having spent the majority of his NBA career with the Orlando Magic, where he enjoyed his best season in 2021-22 by averaging 16.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game.
Anthony expressed his excitement about the move after completing the deal, saying, “I’m super excited to begin this journey with Melbourne United. This is a great opportunity to continue growing as a player and compete for a championship. I’m ready to get to work and can’t wait to represent the club and meet the fans.” His arrival also completes Melbourne United’s roster as new head coach Jacob Chance prepares for the upcoming NBL campaign.
Why Did Cole Anthony Leave the NBA for Melbourne United?
Cole Anthony’s move away from the NBA followed a difficult stretch in which he struggled to secure a consistent role after leaving the Orlando Magic. Following a career-best 2021-22 season, where he averaged 16.3 points per game, his playing time and production gradually declined. His defensive inconsistencies and streaky shooting also made it harder for him to establish himself as a regular contributor, limiting his opportunities across different teams.
Anthony spent part of the 2025-26 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 6.7 points in 35 appearances before being moved at the trade deadline. He was later waived by the Phoenix Suns without playing a game for the franchise, leaving him without a long-term NBA role.
Seeking a fresh opportunity, the 25-year-old opted to continue his career overseas by signing a one-year deal with Melbourne United for the 2026-27 NBL season. The move gives Anthony the chance to play a larger role, earn consistent minutes and help the Australian club compete for a championship.
How Cole Anthony Can Transform Melbourne United’s 2026-27 NBL Season
Cole Anthony arrives at Melbourne United with the experience of six NBA seasons and is expected to play a key role in the club’s push for the 2026-27 NBL title. Known for his scoring ability, Anthony gives Melbourne another reliable offensive option who can create his own shot, attack the basket and put constant pressure on opposing defences. His arrival also strengthens the team’s backcourt, providing greater flexibility as both a primary ball-handler and an off-ball scoring threat.
Anthony’s playmaking is another major boost for Melbourne. His ability to push the pace in transition and create opportunities for teammates should complement the team’s existing core, while his versatility allows head coach Jacob Chance to deploy different backcourt combinations throughout games. His aggressive style of play is also expected to create more space for Melbourne’s shooters and frontcourt players by forcing defenders to collapse into the paint.
Off the court, Anthony brings valuable NBA experience and leadership to a roster with championship ambitions. His familiarity with veteran Joe Ingles from their time together in Orlando could help him settle in quickly, while his competitive mindset and energetic personality are expected to make an immediate impact in the locker room as Melbourne United targets another NBL title.
