VMT MATCH PREVIEW: Phoenix Return to the Heartland for 36ers Clash

Key Details

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX 9-12 (8th) vs ADELAIDE 36ERS 7-14 (10th)
Where: State Basketball Centre, Wantirna South 
When: Wednesday, January 17 at 7:30pm AEDT
Watch Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel
LESS THAN 35 COURTSIDE/PLATINUM SEATS REMAIN; CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOURS

The Phoenix are looking the steady the ship after a torrid run of away games, losing six of the last seven matches.

With one eye on the playoffs, South East Melbourne will likely need to start securing victories to ensure they’re a part of the pointy-end of the season.

Currently eighth on the NBL table after their recent 21-point loss to the Wildcats in Perth, the Phoenix have their best chance to return to the winner’s list against the 36ers.

Although Mike Kelly’s side weren’t able to capitalise on an 18-point half-time lead against Adelaide last time out, eventually falling by three points.

The 36ers are coming into the game after a double-overtime loss to the Cairns Taipans.

Teams

Phoenix

The Phoenix will once again be without their MVP-candidate centre Alan Williams who continues to battle with knee complaints. Gary Browne is recovering from a groin injury and will be a game time decision.

36ers

The visitors will be without import Jacob Wiley (heel) and Next Star Trentyn Flowers (knee) tomorrow night.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kenny ?? Reubs ??<br><br>? Watch on ESPN ?? Kayo | Foxtel <a href="https://t.co/RgrgTU0js3">pic.twitter.com/RgrgTU0js3</a></p>&mdash; South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEMelbPhoenix/status/1725443094487994568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Keep an Eye On

Mitch Creek

Captain Creek is on a roll after a season-best 36-point game against the Wildcats, where he had a shoot-out with MVP contender Bryce Cotton. He loves playing against his old side, Adelaide, averaging 22.1 points and 8.2 rebounds, the most against any opponent.

Dejan Vasiljevic

The former-King-turned-36er has more success against the Phoenix than any other NBL side. Vasiljevic averages 19.2 points and 3.2 three-pointers when he meets South East Melbourne. 

History

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

Last time out – Rd 5, NBL24
Phoenix 93-96 36ers

Phoenix
Williams 23p
Creek 20p
Cummings 16p

36ers
Vasiljevic 29p
Wiley 17p
Flowers 13p

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