VMT MATCH REPORT: Phoenix Bounce Back in a Big Way

On the back of 26 points from Mitch Creek, and an MVP-worthy performance from Alan Williams, who posted 10 points, 14 rebounds and eight assists, Mike Kelly's side saluted in front of a bumper crowd at John Cain Arena.

Matt Kenyon, who assumed the starting guard role, was pivotal in the deciding term, an offensive rebound and put back followed by a corner three giving the hosts a lead that wouldn't be reigned in.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">KENNY WITH THE ?<br><br>? Watch on ESPN ?? Kayo | Foxtel <a href="https://t.co/CvQVSlMxGs">pic.twitter.com/CvQVSlMxGs</a></p>&mdash; South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEMelbPhoenix/status/1730865355646816589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Will Cummings in his new role off the bench was also important with 15 points, while Ben Ayre continuing his charge toward sixth man of the year with 11 points from the pine as well.

While most of the news was positive in the Heartland camp, the night was soured early with what looks like a serious knee injury to starting forward Craig Moller.

After a somewhat innocuous knee knock in the first term, the 208cm forward went down clutching his right knee and took no further part in the game.

The first half was New Zealand's, but after the main break the switch flicked for the hosts, outscoring Mody Moor's side 49-34.

Moor was circumspect about the loss post-match, painting an optimistic picture for his team that currently holds a 4-8 record.

The Phoenix on the other hand can bask in yet another home victory, an eight-day break ahead before they face the Sydney Kings away on December 10.

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WILLIAMS BEEN EATING CARROTS

Not only was Alan Williams a mammoth presence on the defensive end for the Phoenix, he also became chief playmaker. The centre was dishing dimes to teammates that John Stockton would envy, finding passes through narrow lanes with pinpoint precision. Williams also had a new 'goggles' celebration which Phoenix fans will no doubt emulate when they return to the Fire Pit against Melbourne United on December 14.

CREEK'S BIG NIGHT

The Phoenix captain stood up when his side needed him, posting a game-high 26 points and sinking plenty of tough shots when the others on his side were struggling. He went 10/15 from the field, and he too was able to find passes to open teammates with ease. Creek looks like he is hitting form at the right time as the Phoenix eye a playoff berth.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">CREEK SLAMS IT DOWN! ?<br><br>? Watch on ESPN ?? Kayo | Foxtel <a href="https://t.co/YtaiOEgKnR">pic.twitter.com/YtaiOEgKnR</a></p>&mdash; South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEMelbPhoenix/status/1730842702705799662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

FULL-TIME STATS

Creek: 26p/7r/2a/3stls
Cummings: 15p/3r/3a/1stl
Browne: 12p/4r/2a/3stls
Kenyon: 11p/9r/1a
Ayre: 11p/1r/1a
Williams: 10p/14r/8a/2stls
Moller: 3p
Johnson: 2p/1a
Te Rangi: 1blk

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The Phoenix return to the Fire Pit for the final time in 2023 on December 14 for Throwdown XXIII against cross-town rivals Melbourne United. CLICK HERE to secure your seat to the best show in town.