Edwards Silences Critics with Stellar NBL Start

THREE POINTER:

• Rob Edwards leads Cairns Taipans to two big wins in round three
• Edwards outperforms last season’s Best Defensive Player, Shea Ili
• Derek Rucker predicts All-NBL First Team potential for Edwards

Rob Edwards, the Cairns Taipans’ new import, is making waves in the NBL, proving his doubters wrong with each impressive performance. After a shaky start at HoopsFest, Edwards has been instrumental in the Taipans’ three-game winning streak, setting the stage for an exciting clash against the Perth Wildcats.

Dominating Performance

In round three, Edwards showcased his versatility and skill. He posted 16 points, five rebounds, and five assists against the Tasmania JackJumpers, followed by a standout 23-point game against Melbourne United. What makes this performance even more remarkable is that it came against Shea Ili, last season’s Best Defensive Player.

1990 NBL MVP Derek Rucker commented on Edwards’ performance:

“I thought Melbourne United could not check him at all. It’s worth mentioning that because he was guarded by Shea Ili, who did a total blanket job on Bryce Cotton on Friday night.”

Rucker highlighted Edwards’ physical attributes as key to his success:

“He’s really strong. I thought that gave Ili a bit of problem and Edwards still has the athleticism and quickness to put the ball on the deck.”

All-NBL First Team Potential

When asked about Edwards’ potential to make the All-NBL First Team, Rucker was unequivocal in his response:

“Without a doubt. He’s a guy who is going to get better, too.”

This high praise from a respected figure in the NBL community underscores Edwards’ impact and potential for growth as the season progresses.

Pre-season Snubs

Interestingly, Edwards was largely overlooked in pre-season predictions and player evaluations. Rucker acknowledged this oversight:

“In the pre-season, when we were all putting up our early predictions and player evaluations, his name was not mentioned. He kept putting up the crying face emojis and I heard from some people who I really respect say that we’re going to like Rob Edwards and the way he plays the game…and they were correct.”

Rucker added, with a touch of humility:

“And he’s correct in laughing at us for leaving him out of a lot of those predictions.”

As Edwards continues to silence his critics and impress on the court, basketball fans are in for an exciting season watching this rising star in action.

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