DrinkWise Preview: NBL23 - Round 11, Game 1 v SEM Phoenix

Written by Melbourne United Media

Melbourne United will look to bounce back from their loss in Perth quickly when they host the SEM Phoenix in Throwdown XX, delivered by DoorDash on Thursday evening.

United were just a few possessions away from taking home the victory when the two side’s last met in Round 9, and will be hoping that the return of both Isaac Humphries and Shea Ili will be enough to propel them over the live in the must-win matchup.

For the Phoenix, a win would give the side its first ever season-series victory over Melbourne, while extending its current winning streak to four games.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Since making his return from injury, Shea Ili has been excellent for United.

 The kiwi guard has pushed the pace on both ends, hounding opposing players and making tough shots.

Across his games in Round 10, Ili filled the stat sheet, averaging 13.5 points, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks while cashing in on over 66% of his looks from downtown.

United fans will have their eyes on Ili on Thursday as he looks to help Melbourne secure a much-needed victory.

KEY MATCHUP

In Melbourne’s two Throwdown losses, the biggest issue has been shotmaking, with the side only connecting on six three-pointers in each of the two games.

Chris Goulding was responsible for five of those 12 makes, and will look to once again fire away from downtown in hopes of igniting a huge United run.

CG will hope to achieve this while limiting SEM’s pair of lights-out shooters, Ryan Broekhoff and Trey Kell III.

THE OTHER GUYS

The Phoenix have found success inside the paint against United so far this season, working primarily through Alan Williams and Mitch Creek.

The pair are both averaging over 20 points and nearly 10 free-throws attempted during their clashes with United.

Look for the duo to try and dominate the game on the interior once again while playing off the slick passing of Gary Browne.

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GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs SEM Phoenix

Tip off: 7.30pm (AEDT), Thursday 15 December, 2022

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Watch: ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel