Add and Subtract: Melbourne sign Marcus Lee and cut Jordan Caroline

Melbourne United have added former Kentucky big man Marcus Lee to their roster after a disappointing start to the season from import four-man Jordan Caroline.

Caroline was brought in to as United’s third import alongside Xavier Rathan-Mayes and Rayjon Tucker, and failed to capture any form.

In United’s media release, they say: “The American forward showed his impressive work ethic and his professionalism since arriving in Australia, however due to the Hukporti injury and team needs, the organisation has parted ways with Caroline.”

“Melbourne United would like to thank Jordan for everything he gave to the club both on and off the court and wish him the best in all his future endeavours.”

Lee, who stands at 208cm with a huge 7’3 wingspan will bring rim protection which was sorely needed after the season-ending injury to Next Star Ariel Hukporti.

Head Coach Dean Vickerman is excited about the signing.

“Joining a team in the middle of a season, you need to have a great basketball IQ and be a good culture fit, and speaking to Isaac and others, we really believe he checks those boxes,” Vickerman said.

“There’s certainly no question about the energy he’s going to bring to our program. Once Ariel (Hukporti) went down, our need as a team was really to find a replacement for his role, and we believe that in Marcus Lee, we’re getting that.

“He’s a guy that is in his prime, a 6’10 rim protector who has great defensive mobility and the ability to sprint the floor, which are some of the things that Ariel would have given us.”

Lee will not play tonight against the Adelaide 36ers. He will make his debut in the Throwdown on Saturday against South-East Melbourne Phoenix.