What’s been an exciting Round 9 in NBL24 continues and concludes on Sunday with a saucy double-header. First up at 2pm (AEDT) is a matchup that pits Melbourne United against the Cairns Taipans. You can find our full game preview and best bet below!
Also, we’re providing previews and expert betting tips for every game of the NBL24 season, so make sure to head over to our NBL Tips page regularly to keep up to date with all of our content.
NBL24 Round 9 Preview & Betting Tips
Melbourne United vs Cairns Taipans
Sunday 2pm AEDT, December 3rd, John Cain Arena
Due to the international break that wasn’t, Melbourne United have had a long time to prepare for their one and only game in Round 9. They come into Sunday’s matchup with a healthy 10-2 record which places them well clear at the top of the standings.
The only issue for United thus far has been health, but there’s also been some positive news on that front. Matthew Dellavedova is set to return to the lineup to bring his elite defensive skills. He only adds to United’s elite depth at the guard spot that all other teams can only dream of.
Speaking of guards that are elite, Chris Goulding is arguably playing his best basketball despite being deep into his 30’s. Goulding was scintillating in United’s comeback win against the Kings last start where he poured in triple after triple.
On the other hand, the Cairns Taipans will be out to avenge their disappointing defeat to the Bullets in their opening game of Round 9. They had every opportunity to overcome the Bullets last start but their lack of production on the offensive end plagued them once again.
It’s interesting to see that coach Adam Forde continues to go with a starting lineup that can’t spread the floor efficiently due to its lack of shooting. Their three guard trio of McCall, Miller and Armstrong have all found it tough to hit from deep thus far.
Match prediction: There have been a couple of one-sided affairs to date in Round 9, but this looms as arguably the most profound. United are the crème of the crop in NBL24 and the Taipans look likely to finish in the bottom four unless something drastically changes.
With that said, I’m more than happy to take United to cover the spread, as big as it might seem. They’ve shown tremendous consistency on both sides of the ball, particularly the defensive side. Combined with their superior depth at all positions, I have United winning comfortably.
Melbourne United -7.5
$1.92 (2 Units)
