Melbourne United vs Brisbane Bullets NBL25 Game Preview

Jan 25

2 min read

Tip-off is at 2:30 PM AEDT, Sunday, January 26 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Melbourne United vs Brisbane Bullets Expert Analysis

Melbourne United will wrap up their gruelling seven-game road stint with a clash against the Brisbane Bullets, a team they have historically dominated in Brisbane.

With Melbourne's defence stepping up and Chris Goulding in red-hot form, they’ll aim to finish their road stretch 5-2. Meanwhile, the Bullets remain in the play-in hunt after a gritty win over the Breakers, but injuries and inconsistent defence could hinder their chances.

Expect a competitive game with United's disciplined defence and Goulding’s sharpshooting posing significant challenges for the home team.

Key Matchups

Chris Goulding (Melbourne) vs. Brisbane's Perimeter Defence

Goulding has been a nightmare for Brisbane, hitting five or more threes in each of his past five games against them. With the Bullets ranking second-last in opponent three-point percentage, Goulding could have another big night from beyond the arc.

Shae Ili & Matthew Dellavedova (Melbourne) vs. Casey Prather & Keandre Cook (Brisbane)

Melbourne’s defensive backcourt duo was instrumental in shutting down Perth’s Bryce Cotton, and they'll aim to replicate that effort against Brisbane’s imports. If they can contain Prather and Cook, it’ll disrupt the Bullets' offensive rhythm.

Key Stats

Melbourne United have won their past 7 games against the Bullets in Brisbane.
Brisbane averages 86.2 points per game in their past five matches, 6.5 points below their season average.
Brisbane ranks 9th in the NBL in opponent three-point percentage (37.3%).
Chris Goulding has shot 23-41 (56.1%) from three in his past four games against Brisbane.

Why Melbourne United Win

Melbourne’s defence has been exceptional, as shown in their recent win over Perth where they held the Wildcats to 93 points. Shae Ili and Matthew Dellavedova’s ability to lock down opposing guards, coupled with Goulding’s shooting, gives Melbourne a clear edge. Brisbane’s weak three-point defence plays directly into Goulding’s strengths, and if he gets hot, United could run away with the game.

Why Brisbane Bullets Win

The Bullets are still alive in the play-in race and will be desperate for a win. Their imports Casey Prather and Keandre Cook are in strong form, combining for 50 points and 10 threes in their win over New Zealand. If Brisbane’s backcourt can exploit Melbourne’s defence and their team limits United’s three-point shooting, they have a chance to pull off an upset.

Conclusion

Melbourne United head into this matchup as favourites, and for good reason. Their defence has been stellar during this road stretch, and Chris Goulding’s history of tormenting Brisbane from beyond the arc gives them a distinct advantage. While the Bullets are capable of making it competitive, Melbourne’s defensive discipline and Goulding’s sharpshooting should see them finish their road run on a high note.