DREWITT’S BULBS MATCH PREVIEW: Phoenix Search for First Win in Adelaide

Key Details
ADELAIDE 36ERS (0-2) 8th vs SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX (0-3) 9th
Where: Adelaide Entertainment Centre 
When: Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm AEST
Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo 

The Phoenix are heading into round three, 0-3 and searching for that elusive first win for the NBL25 season to kickstart their season.

Similarly, the Adelaide 36ers are also searching for their first win as they welcome the Phoenix into their domain for their home opener. 

Captain Nathan Sobey found his feet in the two-point loss to the New Zealand Breakers, hitting the scoreboard with 24 points, while fellow co-captain Jordi Hunter and import Joe Wieskamp both registered double-doubles.

Captain Hunter mentioned in the mid-week press conference the importance of the Phoenix's defence when they come up against the 36ers on Thursday night in search of that first win.

Under new coach Mike Wells, the 36ers have had two close losses to start their season. Defence is a big focus for both the Adelaide side and the Phoenix, which was marginally improved in their two-point loss to New Zealand on Sunday afternoon.

TEAMS

Phoenix

Guard Matt Kenyon will remain on the sidelines as he continues rehab from a lacerated foot. He will be replaced by DP Luke Rosendale.

36ers

The 36ers will go into their home opener with a full squad. Import Jarrell Martin will remain on the sidelines with ex-NBA star Montrezl Harrell continues to be his replacement.

KEEP AN EYE ON

High-Scoring DJ

36ers guard Dejan Vasiljevic loves to play against the Phoenix, averaging 20 points a game. With both teams focused on defence, DJ will be another target for the Phoenix to allow Vasiljevic to score from deep.

HISTORY

Regular Season Head-to-Head
Phoenix 8-9 36ers

Last time out – Rd16, NBL24
Phoenix 85-110 36ers

Phoenix
Nader 18p
Creek 14p
Gak 12p

36ers
Humphries 25p
Galloway 23p
Kell 21p