DrinkWise Preview: Hungry Jack’s NBL26 - Round 4, Game 1 v Sydney Kings

After a week removed from regular NBL competition, we are set to return to the court on Wednesday evening for a huge Ignite Cup Clash against the Sydney Kings on the road.

Entering the game on a three-game winning streak, and having won five of the past six games against the Kings, Dean Vickerman’s squad will be looking to build on their momentum.

For the Kings, Wednesday night will be their third consecutive home game to start the season. They have split their opening pair of games.

WHAT’S THE WORD?

As is always the case when we face off against Sydney, both head coaches are expecting a tough contest.

Speaking ahead of the game, Dean Vickerman touched on the type of game he sees playing out.

“We expect a real battle,” Vickerman said. 

“They made some big improvements from game one to game two, but we’ve got to keep this winning streak alive.”

King Coach Brian Goorjian lauded the talent within our lineup as he looked ahead to Wednesday evening.

“They’ve always been a powerhouse, and this year, in the time that I’ve been back (in the NBL), might be the best team from top to bottom,” Goorjian explained.

“We’re right now focussed on us, having good days, keep moving forward and growing our group. We look forward to the challenges all year.”

WHO’S HOT, WHO'S NOT

Having dominated the interior across our first three games, fans can expect a continued emphasis on attacking the glass inside Qudos Bank Arena.

We lead all teams in rebounds per game (48.7) and offensive rebounds per game (17.0), both of which have allowed us to produce second chance points (11.3) and fast break points (25.7).

This will be put to the test against the Kings, with Sydney allowing the fewest O-boards per game, and limiting opponents to just six past break points per game in their first two outings.

GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Sydney Kings 

Tip-off: 7:30pm AEST, Wednesday 8 October, 2025

Where: Qudos Bank Arena

Watch: ESPN and Disney+