Latrelle Pickett had to almost be smuggled into Marvel Stadium on Wednesday night, such was Melbourne’s determination to keep their prized No.12 selection under wraps.
And some surprise it was, for Pickett – the cousin of Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett – was what AFL draft legend Kevin Sheehan described as the ultimate bolter.
Pickett turns 20 in December, so he is slightly older than his draft peers, but has impressed this year with his progress at Glenelg.
Latrelle Pickett received his Demons jumper from cousin Kysaiah. Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
“I speak to him [Kysaiah] every day now, he’s had a big inspiration of me… he’s one of my role models and one of my heroes,” Latralle said.
An explosive forward and midfielder, Latralle was presented with his jumper by Kysaiah, and believes he can have an immediate impact alongside his cousin as soon as round one in 2026.
“I think I can definitely have an impact. I just have to put the hard work in this pre-season, I guess, and just give it my all and have a good crack. Just knuckle down and hopefully have the talent to play in round one,” Latralle said.
