The NBL24 Grand Final series concludes this Sunday with Game 5 between Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers set to take place at John Cain Arena. It’s been a roller coaster of a series and it’s only fitting that it all comes down to one game to decide the champions of NBL24. As always, we have you covered with our full game preview and best bet below!
NBL24 Grand Final Preview & Betting Tips
Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers (Game 5)
Sunday 4pm AEDT, March 31st, John Cain Arena
The dramatic NBL24 Grand Final series took another turn on Thursday night with Melbourne United stealing back home court advantage with a crucial win on the road.
It took an almighty effort for United to level the series at 2-2, as they trailed for much of the game including late in the fourth quarter. However, their immense resilience was on display once again and they were able to come away with a two-point win at MyState Bank Arena (88-86).
Now, the series heads back to Melbourne where United will play host in the season finale on Sunday night. There’s plenty of sore bodies in each locker room, although all but the JackJumpers’ Marcus Lee are expected to be available.
For United, they’ll be hoping to get out to another fast start to put the pressure on the JackJumpers to produce another comeback effort. United have been quick out of the blocks all playoffs and have led at half time in each of their last five outings.
On the flip side, the JackJumpers have typically been strong finishers, which is why it was surprising to see them somewhat choke their lead late in the piece in Game 4. Still, they’ve broken even or outscored their opponents in the second half in five of their last six games.
Matthew Dellavedova has been the head of the snake for United for much of these playoffs, and he came up big once again last start with the go-ahead bucket late in Game 4 which ended up being the difference.
In contrast, Milton Doyle struggled mightily for the JackJumpers last start where he hit on only four of his 14 field goal attempts and also coughed up the game losing turnover.
Game 5 prediction: Clearly, there isn’t much splitting these teams and another close game is to be expected on Sunday night. United have been priced as the narrow favourites which is of no surprise considering they have homecourt advantage.
Regardless, I find it difficult to pick a winner and am inclined to back the JackJumpers to cover the seemingly generous handicap. Whichever way the final result goes, I expect it to be very close.
Tasmania JackJumpers +6.5
$1.75 (2 Units)
