Before Nathan Cleary partnered with Jarome Luai to spearhead the Penrith Panthers’ unprecedented four-premiership rampage, the team laid its foundations for success by bringing in veteran champion James Maloney. Signed in 2018, Maloney was a seasoned playmaker with premiership victories at the Sydney Roosters (2013) and Cronulla Sharks (2016). His arrival at Penrith marked a pivotal turning point in the club’s trajectory, particularly for a young Cleary, who was still finding his feet in the NRL.
Maloney’s role was more than just that of a player; he was a mentor and leader on and off the field. Known for his competitive spirit and game management, Maloney brought composure and strategic nous to the team. He took the pressure off Cleary, allowing the then-burgeoning halfback to develop his craft without the full weight of expectation. This partnership saw Cleary learning from one of the game’s best, absorbing critical insights about game control, decision-making, and leadership under pressure.
In their first season together, Maloney and Cleary guided the Panthers to the finals, showcasing glimpses of the team’s potential. Maloney’s influence extended beyond tactics; his relaxed demeanor helped ease the tension for younger players in high-stakes situations. This laid the cultural groundwork for the Panthers’ meteoric rise. By the end of Maloney’s two-year stint, Cleary had grown into a far more confident and commanding playmaker, ready to take the reins as Penrith’s chief orchestrator.
When Maloney departed for the Super League in 2020, Cleary stepped into the role of the senior playmaker with newfound maturity. His partnership with Jarome Luai—who had been waiting in the wings—flourished, as the duo combined flair, precision, and resilience. The lessons learned during Cleary’s time alongside Maloney became evident in his ability to steer Penrith through tight contests and high-pressure scenarios.
While Maloney didn’t taste premiership glory with the Panthers, his contributions were instrumental in setting the stage for their golden era. His mentorship of Cleary provided the foundation for one of the most dominant combinations in modern NRL history. Cleary and Luai’s success may define this Panthers dynasty, but it was Maloney’s experience and leadership that lit th e spark.
