Throwdown XIV: We Are Up for the Challenge

South East Melbourne Phoenix are set to take on their crosstown rivals Melbourne United for Throwdown XIV delieverd by DoorDash on Thursday night.

Mitch Creek joined SEN Breakfast Wednesday morning to talk about the rivalry between the two Melbourne sides and the fiery clash last time they met.

(Creek celebrating after the dunk over Dellavedova.)

“We always know Melbourne vs Melbourne is going to have a bit of hostility, there’s always been that rivalry in the past. They obviously toppled us in the finals last year and I know the people are wanting a whole bunch of razz from the last game, but in all honesty, we are focusing on the job at hand,” Creek commented.

The main highlight from Throwdown XIII was the vicious dunk Creek executed over Matthew Dellavedova. An enormous dunk it was viewed over 10 million times on social media. Asked if he would have a target on his back, Creek commented that no matter what happened last game, the whole team has a target on their back.

(Creek taking a rebound in Throwdown XIII.)

“Mate I think we’ve got a target on our back regardless. We know that we are a team has the potential to win a lot of games and to put pressure on teams in the finals and we did that last year. I don’t think just because we got into a bit of a scuffle it makes any more of a target.

"We know every single week, we are getting every team’s best shot and I know I’m getting everyone’s best shot defensively and from a team perspective as well," he said. 

With United sitting on top of the ladder and Phoenix 3rd position, the jostle for the fials for both teams are the games that matter the most.

(Creek has respect for the talented United team, but when getting on the court it is game on.)

“Melbourne are one of those teams that are so talented no matter where they play but you’re right, if you are not at home against Perth or some other of these big teams in Sydney, it makes a massive difference, there is an easy 10-12 points per game where you are either at home or away and every point matters when you get to finals.”

Even though rivalry is fierce, Creek has a lot of respect for United, a team built with MVPs, Olympians and talented players and realise that Phoenix will need to be at their best against them.

“You love what they do as a competitor, but obviously when you are up against them, 5v5, it’s your 5 verse my 5, and there are no friends but you respect what they do, they've won championships for a reason and they continue to do that. 

“We know we have a big task ahead of us, but we are ready for the challenge.”

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Tickets for Saturday's home game against the Brisbane Bullets - CLICK HERE

Phoenix Media (16/2/22)