From Mardan to London’s basketball courts

Mardan basketballer Vincent Monaghan has made an immediate impression after travelling halfway across the globe to pursue a goal several years in the making of playing overseas.

The 27-year-old recently joined the Barnet Bulldogs in north London at the beginning of September, becoming a paid import for the English National Basketball League Division One club.

And his new coaches and teammates didn’t have to wait long to see what he could do.

Monaghan was named player of the match on debut as Barnet defeated London Elite 74-56 in a pre-season hit-out.

He then backed it up with a massive 31-point performance against Barking Abbey in the squad’s final preseason game, which they won 88-73.

The 6’5 guard/forward helped the Bulldogs take control and showed that he was ready to take on the extra responsibility that comes with being an international recruit.

“As an import, there’s naturally a bit of extra pressure that comes with that,” Monaghan said.

“I need to prove to my teammates that they can rely on me, and I think I achieved that.

However, I need to make an impact to create future opportunities. My basketball career depends on how well I perform, so a large part of the challenge is mental.”

Monaghan grew up in Mardan as one of five children and played most of his junior basketball with the Leongatha Lightning.

He represented the Wonthaggi Coasters in the most recent Country Basketball League (CBL) season, where he earned All-Star Five honours in the Gippsland conference.

He was also a part of the Frankston Blues’ championship-winning NBL1 South squad this season.

But his role in London will be noticeably different.

After having a small role for a strong Frankston squad and receiving limited court time, Monaghan will be expected to play a much bigger role for the Bulldogs, playing primarily at the small forward position and constantly providing a scoring option.

“The biggest adjustment is going from a championship team with Frankston Blues and not playing much, to flying more than 20 hours to Barnet and being a focal point straight away,” he said.

“I’ve had to adjust quickly and get to work.”

The style of play has also given him greater freedom on the court.

“It’s fast-paced and not so reliant on plays, so there’s room to be creative in how we play,” he said.

The Bulldogs will play 32 matches during the season, with Monaghan contracted to remain in England until March.

His deal includes accommodation, a travel card and gym membership, while the club also pays him to play.

Away from the court, Monaghan is working as a basketball coach at Mill Hill School and with people with special needs.

It’s his first overseas playing contract, but one he’d been working towards for several years.

Once his passport was secured, Monaghan began contacting clubs throughout Europe in search of an opportunity. He eventually connected with an agent who helped secure his contract with Barnet.

“I’ve wanted to play in Europe for the last few years. It was a goal of mine,” he said.

“It is my first opportunity playing overseas.”

Moving across the world has brought plenty of adjustments, although the self-described history buff has embraced the chance to get out and explore his new home.

“Off the court has been such an incredible experience,” Monaghan said.

“Just the sheer amount of history in London has me in a state of awe.”

He said the possibility of making playing overseas a reality had only entered his mind in recent years.

His family remained his most consistent source of encouragement, while shooting coach Mark Gaze played a pivotal role in preparing him for the opportunity.

“They’ve been incredible motivators and have believed in me every step of the way,” Monaghan said of his family.

“I’m also incredibly grateful to my shooting guru, Mark Gaze. Without his help, I probably wouldn’t have this opportunity today.”

But Monaghan’s immediate priority is clear.

“My main goal is to help bring a championship to this club,” he said.

Looking beyond his current campaign, Monaghan hopes to continue climbing through the European basketball ranks.

But for now, there’s a championship to win.