Melbourne Mavericks coach Gerard Murphy has given an in-depth explanation of his plans and decision making when it comes to how he is using shooting sensation Uneeq Palavi.
Eager to give fans unprecedented access, the Mavs boss has started a weekly segment “grill the coach” in which he answers fan questions, gives insight to what goes on behind the scenes looks to be as transparent as possible about the team’s journey.
It’s been a roller-coaster few weeks for the Mavs with nailbiters against the Vixens, Swifts and Lightning resulting in two one-goal losses and a victory.
Sitting fourth on the ladder after five rounds, things are not set to get any easier ahead of this weekend’s clash with the Fever.
Among the many questions thrown at Gez, perhaps the most common was about his use of Palavi in attack, when she comes on and his reflection on whether has always made the right call.
Palavi was brought on in over-time against the Vixens which ended in one-goal heartbreak earlier this month. Fans had been quick to question why the coaching team had wait so long to bring her on and whether the timing placed undue pressure on the shooter.
“Let’s talk about one of the most controversial questions and that is about the use of Palavi in game time," Murphy said. "It is a challenging one.
“Normally we would look at rotations, during our pre-season practices different things. We brought her in for five-minute blocks, looked at starting her then using her for super shotting.
“I have brought her on for sections of quarters and for full quarters and then there was over time against the Vixens.
“We have had discussions before we have brought her on and whether it’s a situation she is happy to be in.
“Richo and I look at stats if we think the attack is starting to break down, we look at what role Pav can play.
“She comes on under pressure at times but that is part of the job. We communicate expectations to her, not that she is going to come on and save the day with 10 SS. The idea is she comes on and is built in.”
WATCH THE FULL GRILL THE COACH EPISODE HERE
