Heartland Hustle: Phoenix Prepare For Baynes/Bullets

Last night in New Zealand, the South East Melbourne Phoenix fired a warning shot across the bow of the NBL. With their full lineup on court for the first time, they laid the smackdown on the Breakers, winning 99-77.

The challenge presented by the 0-4 Brisbane Bullets tomorrow night will be a very different one. The Phoenix, who return from New Zealand Friday afternoon, will face a rested Bullets. 

Key Details

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX 2-3 - (7th) v BRISBANE BULLETS 0-4 (10th)

Where: John Cain Arena

When: Saturday, October 22 at 5:30 pm AEDT

Watch on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

(The Phoenix return to the Fire Pit coming off a big win against the Breakers in New Zealand.)

The Line-Up

Phoenix

The Phoenix will have a full roster to roll out on Saturday night. Still playing the roster into shape, the Phoenix will rely on their bench to provide the energy.

Bullets

The Bullets will be without DJ Mitchell serving a club sanctioned one-match ban.

The Key Match Up

Zhou Qi v Aron Baynes

The two ex-NBA bigs will battle it out down low; it will be the first time Baynes has faced a player taller than him this year.

It will be the three-headed monster at centre for the Phoenix as Zhou will be assisted by Alan Williams and Dane Pineau. 

(Zhou Qi and Alan Williams will have their hands full against Aron Baynes tomorrow night.)

The History

Regular Season Head-to-Head: 

South East Melbourne Phoenix 5-5 Brisbane Bullets

Last time they played – Rd 12, NBL22

Phoenix 98–94 Bullets 

 

Phoenix

Gliddon 20p

Broekhoff 18p

Creek 15p

 

Bullets

Patterson 27p

Franks 23p

Drmic 11p

 

The Difference Makers

Mitch Creek

Creek started Thursday night's game on fire, making his first four shots. Creek presents a problem for the Bullets, who, without Mitchell, don't have an obvious match-up. 

Nathan Sobey

Sobey is slowly working his way back from injury and has improved every game. He has shown glimpses of the form that had him in the MVP conversation two seasons ago.

(Mitch Creek is always ready to bring it for the Phoenix faithful.)

The Entertainment

Doors Open – at 4:30pm

There is plenty happening pre-game.

There will be a DJ to pump you up pre-game, face painters to add some colour while you show your skills on the Tyrepower half-court. As always, meet our TRADIE Phoenix Flames and Birdman and grab your Tyrepower clappers before heading to your seat for the game.

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!

At three-quarter time, one lucky fan will get the chance to shoot a half-court shot for a brand-new MG.

If you attend the game and are a Phoenix member, you will get ten entries for the chance to win an MG at the final home game of the season.

(There's plenty for the whole family to look forward to at tomorrow's game.)

How to Get to the FirePit

The precinct will be busy on Saturday night with a concert at Rod Laver Arena and A-League game at AAMI Park. Please plan your trip to John Cain Arena HERE.

The Eastern Car Park is SOLD OUT for Saturday night.

If travelling via public transport, please note buses replace trains on sections of the Mernda, Hurstbridge, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Sunbury, Craigieburn, and Upfield lines this weekend. To plan your journey, www.ptv.vic.gov.au

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Phoenix Media (21/10/2022)