DrinkWise Preview: Hungry Jack’s NBL26 - Round 2 v SEM Phoenix

It’s time for the first Throwdown clash of the new Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season!

We are set to host the South East Melbourne Phoenix in Throwdown 29 on Thursday evening from 7:30pm, with both sides looking to retain their unbeaten records.

Across the history of the Throwdown, we have developed a comfortable margin, winning 19 of the 28 previous matchups, including seven of the previous nine meetings.

WHAT’S THE WORD?

Looking ahead to his first taste of Throwdown action, Milton Doyle touched on his excitement for Thursday night.

“I’ve heard about it being a part of the league… It’s going to be a good game,”

“We’re going to get hyped up a little bit before it, I’m excited for it… We’re fighting over whose gym it is, and it’s ours. We’ve just got to let them know, (give them a) reminder.” 

South East Melbourne Phoenix Head Coach Josh King broke down what his team needs to do to have success in the Throwdown.

“I think they (my team) will be ready,” he said.

“If you want to beat a team like them (United), you’ve got to play well.”

WHO’S HOT, WHO'S NOT

Looking at how we were able to produce our pair of victories in Round 1, rebounding and defence spring to mind as the biggest factors.

Against the JackJumpers and Breakers, we collected 17 more rebounds, 11 of which came on the offensive glass, resulting in 16 more second chance points.

Replicating this against the Phoenix will be the challenge, as our cross-town rivals come off one of the largest victories in the club’s existence.

Against the Taipans, South East Melbourne forced their opponents into 19 turnovers, leading to 17 points at the other end.

Look for both teams to try and establish their defence early on come Thursday.

GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne Phoenix

Tip-off: 7:30pm AEST, Thursday 25 September, 2025

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Watch: Disney+ and Kayo