Illawarra Hawks vs Melbourne United NBL Game Preview

October 24, 2024 | 7:30PM (AEDT) WIN Entertainment Centre

Illawarra Hawks vs Melbourne United NBL Game Preview

The Round 6 matchup between the Illawarra Hawks and Melbourne United promises to be an intense contest as both teams look to strengthen their positions early in the NBL 25 season. Melbourne United, coming off of a loss last week to the South East Melbourne Phoenix, are keen to bounce back in this one, while the Illawarra Hawks are looking to continue their incredible form to start the season.

Key Matchups

Sam Froling (Illawarra) vs. Jack White (Melbourne):

This frontcourt matchup will play a significant role in determining the outcome of the game. Froling, one of the league’s most talented big men, brings a versatile offensive skill set and strong rebounding for the Hawks. White, on the other hand, is a defensive anchor and a key scoring option for Melbourne United. If Froling can outmanoeuvre White in the paint, it will give the Hawks a crucial advantage, but Whites shot-blocking and ability to finish inside will be just as important for United’s hopes.

Tyler Harvey (Illawarra) vs. Matthew Dellavedova (Melbourne):

This battle in the backcourt is set to be a thrilling encounter. Harvey is Illawarra’s go-to scorer, capable of lighting up from beyond the arc or attacking the basket. He will need to be at his best to break down Melbourne’s stingy defense, led by the experienced Dellavedova. Delly’s defensive IQ and playmaking ability give Melbourne United a major advantage, and if he can limit Harvey’s scoring while keeping United’s offence flowing, it could spell trouble for the Hawks.

Key Stats

Illawarra Hawks:

• Illawarra has won seven of its last eight home games.

• Heading into Round 6, Illawarra ranks 1st in the league for points per game this season (101.2).

• Heading into Round 6, Darius Days is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks per game this season.

• Tyler Harvey has scored 15+ points in each of Illawarra's last four home games against Melbourne.

Melbourne United:

• Melbourne has won six of its last seven games against Illawarra.

• Heading into Round 6, Melbourne ranks 1st in the league for opponent points per game this season (83.6).

• Matthew Dellavedova has a career average of 17.4 points per game against Illawarra - most against any opponent

• Jack White has recorded eight or more rebounds in 10 of his last 12 appearances.

Why Illawarra Hawks Win

For the Hawks to pull off another early season win, they will need big performances from their stars, particularly Tyler Harvey and Sam Froling. Froling’s ability to control the paint and Harvey’s perimeter shooting will be key to breaking through Melbourne’s defense. If Illawarra can quicken the game up, limit turnovers, and force Melbourne into tough shots, they will have a chance to take advantage of their home crowd and secure a much-needed victory.

Why Melbourne United Wins

Melbourne United’s balanced attack and elite defense give them the upper hand in this matchup. Led by veterans like Dellavedova, United’s ability to control the pace of the game, along with Jack White dominance inside, puts them in a strong position. If United can continue their strong defensive form and neutralise Illawarra’s key players, they should be able to walk away with the road win.

Illawarra’s home-court advantage and the firepower of Tyler Harvey and Sam Froling make them a dangerous opponent, but Melbourne United’s depth, defensive discipline, and ability to control the tempo could give them the edge in this matchup. Expect a closely contested game, but Illawarra's overall balance and experience should be enough to see them through to victory in Round 6.