Current Melbourne United chief executive, Vince Crivelli, has been announced as the National Basketball League’s (NBL’s) new chief operating officer, stepping in at the completion of this current season.

Crivelli has been in his role at United since the club’s inception in 2014, over-seeing the club’s inaugural championship in 2018.

Speaking on the appointment, Crivelli said: “The NBL has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence over the past six years and is now considered one of the best basketball leagues in the world outside of the NBA.”

“I look forward to working across the whole league to help take it to the next level.

“I hope my experience will enable me to identify new opportunities for the sport and I will work closely with our key stakeholders including the clubs to ensure we build a strong and sustainable entertainment product and continue to grow our fan base,” he said.

NBL owner and executive chairman, Larry Kestelman, said Crivelli’s experience and expertise was a key factor in the league’s decision to appoint him.

“We are excited to welcome Vince to the NBL where he will play a key role as part of the executive team and work closely with all of our clubs to ensure basketball continues to go from strength to strength in Australia,” Kestelman said.

“His skills and background will be invaluable as we deal with the challenges of a growing sport and look to maximise the opportunities for the future.

“Strong clubs and fan growth are crucial components of our future success and Vince’s experience will be critical as he works closely side by side with NBL chief commercial officer Brad Joyner and NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger,” he said.

Crivelli will assist with the transition in finding his successor at United before beginning with the NBL.