Cairns Taipans vs Illawarra Hawks NBL Round 18 Game Preview

Jan 21

2 min read

Tip-off is at 7:30pm on Thursday 23rd January at Cairns Convention Centre

Lachlan Olbrich getting ready to shoot the basketball.

Cairns Taipans vs Illawarra Hawks Expert Analysis

Illawarra Hawks will aim to secure a 3-1 season series win over the Cairns Taipans on Thursday night. The Hawks have showcased their offensive dominance throughout the season, leading the league in points per game and excelling in interior scoring. Although they suffered an upset loss to Cairns earlier this month, snapping the Taipans’ long losing streak, Illawarra is poised to bounce back with a stronger performance.

Cairns, meanwhile, have struggled to find consistency. After their surprise win over Illawarra, they stumbled again losing 3 of their next 4 including a poor shooting performance against the 36ers, highlighting their offensive vulnerabilities. Defensively, they’ve struggled to contain interior threats, which could spell trouble against the Hawks’ potent paint presence.

Illawarra’s depth has been a key factor, with their bench contributing significantly all season. Star performers like Lachie Olbrich and a well-rounded roster ensure they can adapt to various game scenarios. Meanwhile, Cairns will need standout performances from players like Sam Waardenburg and Rob Edwards to keep up with the Hawks' scoring pace.

Expect Illawarra to dictate the tempo, aiming to score 100+ points while leveraging their interior dominance and depth to overcome Cairns.

Key Matchups

Lachie Olbrich vs. Cairns Defence

Olbrich has thrived against the Taipans, scoring in double figures in all three matchups this season. His consistency could tilt the game in Illawarra’s favour.

Hawks Bench vs. Taipans Depth

Illawarra’s bench averages 35.3 points per game, including 39.3 against Cairns. The Taipans’ inability to match this production could be decisive.

Points in the Paint

Illawarra average 51.7 points in the paint, leading the league. Cairns allow the third-most interior points, a clear advantage for the Hawks.

Key Stats

Illawarra leads the NBL in scoring with 102.2 points per game.
Hawks average 51.7 points in the paint (1st in the league).
Cairns allow the 3rd most points in the paint and 4th most bench points to opponents.
Lachie Olbrich averages 12+ points against Cairns compared to 9 points on the season.

Why Cairns Taipans Can Win

Cairns’ defence will need to contain Illawarra’s interior scorers while capitalising on fast-break opportunities. If players like Waardenburg and Edwards step up and the Taipans shoot efficiently from beyond the arc, they can pull off another upset.

Why Illawarra Hawks Can Win

Illawarra’s offensive firepower and depth are their strengths. By controlling the tempo and attacking Cairns' interior defence, they can overwhelm the Taipans. With Olbrich and other role players in form, the Hawks hold all the cards for a victory.

Conclusion

Illawarra’s scoring depth, league-leading offence, and dominance in the paint make them favourites in this matchup. Expect them to control the pace and secure a decisive win, with Lachie Olbrich continuing his strong run against the Taipans.

Prediction: Illawarra Hawks to win, scoring 100+ points.