Phoenix 2021/22 Schedule Announced

South East Melbourne Phoenix fans are in for an exciting year of live hoops with the release of the 2021/22 NBL schedule.

The Phoenix’s season will tip off on December 4 at John Cain Arena against Brian Goorjian’s Hawks, in what will be the debut of Chinese star Zhou Qi and American guard Xavier Munford.

Local fans will be delighted with the confirmation of a game at the State Basketball Centre when Tasmania come to town for the first time on January 10.

The team’s first home Throwdown against arch rivals Melbourne United is slated for February 10, while the battle of seven-foot Chinese big men Zhou Qi and Chuanxing Liu is set for March 3.

A home Australia Day matchup with New Zealand has also been scheduled, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

The club’s annual Member Appreciation (Feb 10 v Melbourne) and Starlight (Feb 26 v Perth) rounds have also been locked in.

“We’re all in on contending for the championship this season and can’t wait to tip things off in front of our home fans on December 4,” Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said.

“COVID-19 impacts starved our fans of being there to cheer us on in our maiden finals run last season, so the prospect of a buzzing Heartland crowd behind us as we try to go a few steps further this time around is so exciting. South East Melbourne is a proud basketball community and one that will be roaring again in NBL22.”

CLICK HERE TO VIEW FULL 2021/22 SCHEDULE

Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell says the schedule announcement puts his team in a strong position to prepare for the season.

“Getting the full schedule allows our coaching staff to plan for the remainder of the pre-season, now knowing we have roughly seven weeks to get the team ready for a big year ahead. Internal expectations are high heading into our third season in the league and we want to find our best form early to put ourselves in the best possible position to compete for a title,” Mitchell said.

“I know our players can’t wait to perform in front of our home fans again after finishing last season on the road. It’s been too long since we enjoyed their live energy and support, so December 4 can’t come quick enough.”

All games will be broadcast live on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel, and the 1pm and 3pm Sunday games will also be broadcast live and free on 10 Peach, ESPN and Kayo Freebies.

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger says the later start date is to allow as many fans in stadiums as possible.

“While it’s only a few weeks later than we originally planned, the new start date gives us a greater level of comfort and flexibility as we navigate through the current environment and prioritise having our growing number of fans courtside around the country and in New Zealand,” he said.

“The NBL is a fan-first product and playing in front of crowds is vital for the league and our clubs. Giving supporters an even better chance of seeing their teams compete at home was a key driver in moving things back slightly and in how we’ve structured the schedule.”

Details on a pre-season tournament will be announced soon.  

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Phoenix Media (12/10/2021)