DrinkWise Preview: NBL23 - Round 7, Game 1 v Adelaide 36ers

Written by Melbourne United Media

Melbourne United will look to jump-start the second-third of their season on Thursday when they host the Adelaide 36ers at John Cain Arena.

Winners of three of their last four games and coming off their biggest victory of the year, United are full of confidence ahead of another game in front of their tremendous home fans.

For the visitors, the 36ers have been on a downward slide, losing three of their last four games while dealing with roster turnover.

Searching for consistency, Adelaide will be hoping their remaining stars can propel them back into the winners circle.

PLAYER TO WATCH

It’s been a huge week for Isaac Humphries, who courageously came out as the only active openly gay basketball player playing in one of the world’s top leagues.

Heading into his first meeting with his former team, Humphries will be hoping to carry on his recent form, which has had him looking like one of the league’s best big-men.

Across his past four games Ice has averaged 16.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.8 blocks, while shooting the ball at over 66% from the field.

If Humphries can replicate some of his recent performances, United will be poised to secure another important home victory.

KEY MATCHUP

With star guard Craig Randall II gone, much of Adelaide’s scoring load has fallen on forward Robert Franks, who will match up against one of United’s most exciting young players, David Okwera.

Since entering Melbourne’s starting lineup, Okwera has impressed with his exciting play and explosive versatility.

The 20-year-old dynamo will have his work cut out for him when he lines up against Franks, who has averaged close to 18 points per game across his past four outings.

THE OTHER GUYS

Boasting firepower across all positions, the 36ers remain dangerous for any team each time they take to the court.

Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Antonius Cleveland can lock down even the league’s best scorers and is a terror in the open court, while the pairing of Mitch McCarron and Sunday Dech provides great creation.

Veteran scorers Daniel Johnson and Anthony Drmic can both put together impressive shooting displays, however a major X-factor for Adelaide comes in the form of Kai Sotto, who can provide big performances off the bench.

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GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Adelaide

Tip off: 7:30pm (AEDT), Thursday 17 November, 2022

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Watch: ESPN via Kayo Freebies

Listen: Cluch Radio