Round 2 of NBL26 kicks off with the first Throwdown of the season, which is of course the rivalry game between Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix. United got their campaign off to a 2-0 start in Round 1, while the Phoenix also took care of business in their opening encounter. We bring you our full game preview and best bet for the Throwdown below!
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Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne Phoenix Prediction & Betting Tips: NBL26 Round 2
United Setting the Pace Early
Melbourne United enter this contest with a perfect 2-0 record after a dominant opening round. Their offence was firing on all cylinders, scoring 88 points to beat the Tasmania JackJumpers on the road and a massive 114 to beat the New Zealand Breakers at home. New import Milton Doyle was a key contributor with 22 points in the season opener against Tasmania, including the game-winning jumper and a clutch three-pointer. In their second game, new centre Jesse Edwards took control with 22 points on 9-of-10 shooting, while Next Star Dash Daniels added 14 points in a breakout performance. United’s depth was on full display, with several players stepping up in key moments, proving they can win even without captain Chris Goulding.
Phoenix Relentless in Season Opener
The South East Melbourne Phoenix, meanwhile, are coming off an emphatic statement victory of their own, trouncing the Cairns Taipans 114-77 in Round 1. Their defence was the story of the night, spearheaded by new import John Brown III, who put on a defensive masterclass with six steals. The Phoenix had an incredibly balanced attack in their opener, with seven different players scoring in double digits. Angus Glover was the top scorer with 18 points, hitting four three-pointers off the bench. New import guard Hunter Maldonado added 16 points and five assists, while veteran Nathan Sobey contributed 13 points and eight assists. It was a well-rounded performance that signals the Phoenix are ready to make some noise this season.
Recent H2H History
Recent history between these two teams has been incredibly tight and evenly matched. In NBL25, the Throwdown series was split 2-2. The last regular season Throwdown of NBL25 went Melbourne United’s way with a 103-93 victory. However, it was a pre-season Throwdown just last month that might offer the most insight. United came back from a 22-point deficit to win by six, a result that highlights their resilience but also points to the Phoenix's ability to explode out of the gates. With both teams having made significant roster changes, this match-up will be the truest test yet of their new identities.
United or Phoenix? Here’s Our Throwdown 29 Tip
Ultimately, while the Phoenix’s defensive tenacity will be a factor, Melbourne United's offensive firepower and impressive depth should be enough to secure the win and cover the -3.5 spread. United’s ability to win ugly on the road against Tasmania and then dominate at home against the Breakers shows their versatility. They have multiple players who can take over a game at any given moment. Look for Milton Doyle to thrive in the bright lights of the Throwdown and for the home team to put on a show for their fans.
Melbourne United –3.5
$1.87 (1 Unit)
United vs Phoenix Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday, September 25th 2025
Time: 7:30pm AEST
Location: John Cain Arena, Melbourne
Odds: United $1.55 vs Phoenix $2.45
Line: United -3.5
Points: 185.5
Where to Watch United vs Phoenix
You can watch the United vs Phoenix clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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