Heartland Hustle: Phoenix Host Wildcats for Home Play-In Qualifier

Phoenix and Wildcats kick off the NBL23 post-season with the first-ever play-in qualifier between 5th and 6th, with the winner advancing to the play-in game. 

Phoenix spent the last week waiting to see who their opponent would be on Thursday night.

The last time the two sides met, the State Basketball Centre was rocking and rolling as Ryan Broekhoff went 6/10 from deep before being injured late in the game. After missing just over two weeks, Broekhoff will return to the side for the do-or-die clash tomorrow night.

Perth will be out for revenge after the Phoenix ended their 35-year finals streak in the last game of NBL22.

It all starts tomorrow night as the Phoenix aim to Bring It Home! 

(Phoenix will wear their Heartland jerseys to represent the community on court in tomorrow's play-in qualifier.)

Key Details
SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX 15-13 (5th) v PERTH WILDCATS 15-13 (6th)
Where: John Cain Arena
When: Thursday, February 9 at 6:30pm AEDT
Watch on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

The Line Up

Phoenix

Phoenix will have a full roster, with sharpshooter Ryan Broekhoff returning from a groin injury he sustained the last time they played Wildcats in Round 16.

Wildcats

Wildcats will go in with a full roster tomorrow night. 

The Key Match Up

Mitch Creek v Bryce Cotton

The two MVP finalists will both play a significant role in the outcome of the game. 

Creek has had a career-best season and has been the most consistent performer in the league. 

Cotton is the focal point of the Wildcat's offence and will be the focal point of the Phoenix defence.

The History

Regular Season Head-to-Head: 
South East Melbourne Phoenix 6-8 Perth Wildcats 

Last time out – Rd 16, NBL23
Phoenix 112–91 Wildcats 

Phoenix
Williams 27p
Broekhoff 26p
Creek 20p

Wildcats
Cotton 25p
C Webster 21p
Travers 13p

The Difference Makers

Alan Williams

After re-committing to the Phoenix for another two years during the week, Williams will be out to ensure his first finals campaign does not end Thursday night.

Big Sauce led the league in rebounding, an area of the game in which the Wildcats have struggled this season.

Corey Webster

Too much focus on Cotton and Webster can hurt you. After a quiet game against Cairns, he came out strong against the Kings finishing with 26 points, six rebounds and five assists.

(Phoenix fans can watch the Phoenix for the first-time live at a home final tomorrow night.)

What's On at the Fire Pit

Make sure you get involved in our Firestarter moment just before tip-off. All Phoenix fans, get off your seats and make some noise as the game starts. Stay on your feet until the band stops playing and sing along. Bring the energy!

Pre-game on the Southern Concourse, get your moves out with Birdman and the TRADIE Phoenix Flames with a DJ pumping the tunes before the big game. Show your skills on the Tyrepower Half-Court. 

Get your Phoenix colours on at the face painting station at the Southern Concourse. 

How to Get to the Fire Pit

Please plan your trip to John Cain Arena HERE.

Pre-book your parking at the Eastern Car Park, as it will sell out quickly for Thursday night. CLICK HERE to book.

If travelling via public transport, please note buses replace trains on sections of the Belgrave, Lilydale, Werribee, Williamstown, Sunbury, and Frankston lines on Thursday night. To plan your journey, www.ptv.vic.gov.au

CLICK HERE to secure your seats to the big game tomorrow night.

Phoenix Media (08/02/23)