South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Brisbane Bullets NBL Round 16 Game Preview
Tip-Off: 8:00 PM AEDT, 11th of January | Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium
South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Brisbane Bullets Expert Analysis
South East Melbourne Phoenix host the Brisbane Bullets in a pivotal Round 16 clash.
The Phoenix are riding a high after eight consecutive games scoring 99+ points, while the Bullets will rely on Casey Prather’s offensive heroics to stay competitive.
With both teams vying for playoff positioning, this matchup is poised to deliver high-scoring action, with the Phoenix carrying the edge thanks to their elite offensive form.
Key Matchups
Matt Hurt vs. Brisbane’s Interior Defence
Matt Hurt has been on fire against Brisbane this season, dropping 27 and 24 points in their two previous meetings. Brisbane’s defensive struggles in the paint and their league-worst opponent field goal percentage (48.8%) could open the door for another standout performance from Hurt.
Casey Prather vs. Phoenix’s Defence
Prather has been Brisbane’s go-to scorer, averaging 27.3 points over his last 11 games. South East Melbourne’s defensive scheme will need to focus on limiting his touches and forcing the Bullets’ secondary players to step up.
Phoenix’s Offence vs. Brisbane’s Defence
South East Melbourne’s offence ranks second in the league over the past five games, averaging 106.2 points. The Phoenix will test Brisbane’s defensive mettle, which has been inconsistent, especially against top-tier scoring teams.
Key Stats
South East Melbourne’s Scoring Streak: The Phoenix have scored 100+ points in six straight games and rank second in scoring over their last five (106.2 PPG).
Brisbane’s Defensive Struggles: Brisbane allows the highest opponent field goal percentage in the league (48.8%).
Head-to-Head:Â Brisbane leads the season series 2-0, but both games were closely contested.
Matt Hurt’s Dominance: Hurt has averaged 25.5 points against Brisbane this season.
Casey Prather’s Impact: Prather is averaging 27.3 points over his last 11 games.
South East Melbourne Phoenix Form & Team News
The Phoenix are surging after a 105-91 win over the reigning champion Tasmania JackJumpers. The victory highlighted their balanced scoring attack, with five players hitting double digits.
Matt Hurt has been pivotal, scoring 20+ points in four of his last six games, while Derrick Walton Jr. is back to full fitness, averaging 19.4 points and 6.2 assists over his last five outings.
The Phoenix’s defence, led by head coach Josh King’s system, has complemented their offensive firepower, making them a dangerous two-way team as the playoffs approach.
Brisbane Bullets Form & Team News
The Bullets secured an 83-74 win over the New Zealand Breakers on Wednesday, with Casey Prather dominating the game with 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Prather has been the heart of Brisbane’s offence, but defensive lapses remain a concern for the team.
While the Bullets showed promise by holding the Breakers to 74 points, they’ll need to replicate that effort consistently to offset their season average of 95.1 opposition points per game.
Why South East Melbourne Will Win
South East Melbourne’s offence is firing on all cylinders, and with Matt Hurt’s dominance against Brisbane and Derrick Walton Jr.’s improved form, the Phoenix have the tools to exploit the Bullets’ defensive weaknesses. Their balanced scoring and improved defensive mindset make them the favourites.
Why Brisbane Will Win
If Brisbane can slow down the Phoenix’s offence and Casey Prather continues his MVP-level play, the Bullets have a chance. Strong defensive efforts like their game against the Breakers will be critical to pulling off the upset.
Conclusion
South East Melbourne’s elite scoring form and Matt Hurt’s dominance against Brisbane make the Phoenix favourites to win and cover the line. With Brisbane’s defensive vulnerabilities, the Phoenix should also surpass their team total.
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