Co-Captains’ Return for Round 7

South East Melbourne Phoenix will regain two of their co-captains in Ryan Broekhoff and Kyle Adnam for Round 7.

Adnam (covid) and Broekhoff (hamstring) were both late outs in the hours and minutes leading up to Throwdown XVII.

Adnam has recovered well from covid and trained well this past week.

Broekhoff missed much of the pre-season and first few games of the season with a hamstring injury. 

“The hamstring just didn’t feel right before the game. Obviously had some trouble with it during pre-season and was out for a little while. As far as thinking long-term for the season, it was a smart decision to not play. I had a scan on it and found out what was wrong and having the FIBA break came at a good time,” said Broekhoff.

“Feeling fit, feeling good to go. Got through this week’s training with no setbacks. Planning on playing these two games and really looking forward to getting back on the court with the guys.”

(Adnam returns for Round 7 after having Covid that saw him miss Throwdown XVII.)

Head coach Simon Mitchell also reiterated how great it was two get two of his leaders back in the side, but stressed Broekhoff will be managed. 

“Ryan has fully recovered from a mild hamstring strain, however, given his history with soft tissue injuries we will be bringing him back via minutes restriction. He has been training well over the FIBA break, initially in rehab mode, but he has been on the floor with the rest of the group this week,” Mitchell commented.

“Kyle has recovered from his bout with Covid. Luckily, he did not suffer too badly and has resumed to full duties. It’s great to have two leaders return to the line-up.”

Unfortunately, Zhou Qi will miss round 7 due to a calf injury he sustained a fortnight ago and will be assessed upon returning from national team duties where a timeline will be planned for his return.

“Zhou Qi toured with the Chinese National team during the FIBA window and has not yet returned to the club. Once he gets back into Australia he will be examined by medical staff and will continue his rehabilitation from a calf injury,” Mitchell said.

(Zhou will miss Round 7 and will be assessed when he returns from national duties.)

Tickets are selling fast for Throwdown XVIII with courtside and heartland seating sold out and only limited tickets remaining for the rest of the arena.

Be there for the huge game against cross-town rivals Melbourne United this Saturday, November 19 at 5:30pm.

CLICK HERE to secure your tickets.

Phoenix Media (16/11/22)