Machado brings the Magic to NBL1

The Mandurah Magic have announced the signing of Cairns Taipans superstar Scott Machado to their roster for the remainder of the NBL1 West Season.

A historic deal in the first year of the NBL1 West, Machado's choice to head West is a sign that potential recruits see the value, professionalism and opportunity in the NBL1. The talented basketballer had opportunities at various NBA clubs, including Toronto Raptors, LA Lakers and Utah Jazz. But, not finding a secure spot on those rosters, he looked elsewhere for the next step in his professional career.

Machado landed on Aussie shores in 2019, signing with the Cairns Taipans for their 2019-20 season and, after a breakout season, was named in the All NBL First Team. His current 2020-21 season form of 15 points, seven assists and three rebounds per game indicates the 31-year-old will be a huge in for the Magic going into the back half of the season.

NBL1 West General Manager Adam Bowler can't deny the significance of this signing, saying: "This is a landmark signing for the NBL1 West, and we are thrilled to welcome a player of Scott's calibre into our league. His ability, experience and professionalism speak for themselves. This is a player who has been in the NBA system and a runner-up MVP of the NBL. What he will bring both on and off the court will be invaluable."

Mandurah Magic President Adam Ahern said: “We are excited that Scott has chosen to join us for the rest of the NBL1 West Season. To have a player of this calibre at our club is an incredible opportunity, and the impact at all levels of basketball in our community will be immense. I’m proud that Scott believed in Mandurah Magic as a club, NBL1 West as a league and WA Basketball as a whole.

“Scott and his team have been excellent to work with, and we look forward to welcoming him to our club in the coming days.”