Xavier Munford's Idol, Kobe Bryant

South East Melbourne Phoenix’s newest import for the NBL22 campaign, Xavier Munford made sure Australian basketball fans knew exactly who he was after the first game of his NBL career.

(Xavier Munford has made his mark in his debut NBL season.)

Munford joined podcast The Logue Down with Chris Anstey and Matt Louge on December 8 to chat about his career and joining the Phoenix.

“The league is growing continuously…there were times in the past where I was flirting with a couple of teams, and it was always in the conversation.

“Right now, this is the best time to come to the NBL, it is on a rise, this league is getting on the map…this was the best situation for me,” Munford said on coming to the NBL.

Growing up in New Jersey, Munford faced many challenges, including the early part of his high school career, where he went from very limited minutes, to playing mostly as 6th man his senior year.

“Face the adversity early and have a longer career,” commented Munford.

Munford leaves his two sons back home in America, facetiming them whenever he can, even if it is late at night Australia time.

“Just giving them that care and affection, just trying to be dad from miles away – doing the best I can,” he said.

(Munford going for a lay-up.)

Like any basketball fan and player, Munford idolised Kobe Bryant, playing against the late superstar in his farewell season.

“To be honest to take the court with him was amazing and a huge blessing, something that I had dreamed about.

“I was out on the court, but I didn’t play that well in the game, I was just staring at Kobe and watching him…just amazing to see him out there,” Munford said.

Xavier reminisced on a certain moment in the game that has stuck with him ever since.

“I was in the game, I was guarding…it was my play to score, Kobe switches onto me, he wasn’t switching at all, I was in shock that I picked up the ball and dribbled again…clear double dribble…he then said to me, ‘hey man just play your game, be confident, you’re here for a reason, play your game’,” he said.

A fan of Bryant, Munford is partial for Nike Kobe's and broke out a special pair for his first game, the gold undefeated colour way of the popular shoe.

“I try and get as many Kobe’s as I can, that’s my favourite sneaker to play basketball in…the gold undefeated Kobe’s would be nice to come out in debut,” he said.

(The gold Nike Kobe's that Munford wore in Round 1 against the Breakers.)

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Kadek Thatcher for Phoenix Media (22/12/21)