Melbourne United announce signing of Nicolas Tata

Melbourne United have announced the signing of Nicolas Tata as their Nominated Replacement Player (NRP) for the NBL26 season.

The 25-year-old spent NBL25 with United as a Training Player, and will look to continue to develop in the system. 

Playing for the Nunadawing Spectres in NBL1 South this season, Tata averaged 6.4 points, and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Born and raised in Melbourne, Tata expressed great pride after signing with his hometown team.

“This really is a dream of mine,” he told Melbourne United Media.

“To play for Melbourne United, my hometown team, means the world to me. I will do whatever I can to help us compete for a championship."

Tata also emphasised the importance of putting his best foot forward and making the most of the opportunity that has come his way.

“Since coming into the program, I really feel like I’ve taken strides towards becoming the best version of myself on the basketball court," he said.

“Putting in the work alongside some of the legends of our sport, I’ve learnt what it takes to play at the highest level, and I’m going to continue putting in that work to stay ready for whatever the team needs from me."

We are excited to announce the signing of Nicolas Tata as our Nominated Replacement Player for NBL26.
Standing at 208cm tall, Tata provides an elite vertical threat to the lineup.
Tata previously spent NBL25 with our team as a Training Player.
More - https://t.co/feNtiHe7Y0 pic.twitter.com/UXGEhy1Glh

— Melbourne United (@MelbUnited) August 6, 2025

United Head Coach Dean Vickerman said he believes the big-man is ready to contribute right away if called upon.

“Tata is a player we’ve seen tremendous growth from across his time with the program,” Vickerman explained.

“He is a truly unique athlete for his size and is capable of playing the way we want to at the NBL level. He can make plays above the rim and has developed his ability to defend out on the perimeter.

“Having him on the roster as the NRP provides us great insurance at the big-man spot.”

Tata joins Chris Goulding, Shea Ili, Milton Doyle, Finn Delany, Tyson Walker, Kyle Bowen, Tanner Krebs, Fabijan Krslovic, Tom Wilson, Dash Daniels, Malith Machar, Campbell Blogg and Tom Koppens as signed players for NBL26.