Match Recap: Throwdown XVIII, NBL23 Round 7, Game 2 v SEM Phoenix

Melbourne United have dropped their second game of Round 7, going down by 15 points to the SEM Phoenix in Throwdown XVIII, delivered by DoorDash.

United got off to a terrific start, going on an immediate 8-1 run while holding SEM without a field goal for the first three minutes.

Isaac Humphries was huge over this stretch, playing great defence and scoring in the post, tallying six first-term points.

Equally impactful for Melbourne were Rayjon Tucker and Xavier Rathan Mayes, who each added four points to boost the ‘visitors’.

Despite this strong effort, SEM fought back, ultimately working their way into the lead to close the quarter up by one point.

Looking to stay aggressive, Tucker continued to attack from the start of the second period, quickly adding five points to his tally through a powerful dunk and silky three-pointer.

While this, along with a fast four points from XRM had United well poised to take control of the game, however some wayward shooting slowed Melbourne’s momentum.

With a window open, SEM capitalised through Gary Browne, who had a strong first half leading to a 39-32 advantage to the Phoenix heading into the major break.

Needing some energy coming out of half-time, Chris Goulding did his best to lift his side, scoring five quick points for United.

Unfortunately for Melbourne, SEM took control of the quarter, getting to the line for 12 attempts and sinking a quartet of three-pointers to propel themselves in front by as many as 24 points.

Brad Newley did his best to provide Melbourne with an extra option off the bench, scoring six points, however United were tasked with overcoming a 23-point margin leading into the final 10 minutes.

Needing to be perfect in the fourth quarter, Melbourne started well, scoring five quick points through Goulding and Newley, before Tucker exploded for another five points of his own, reducing the SEM lead to 15.

United kept pushing, hitting big shots, however in the end the Phoenix’s advantage was simply too large to overcome.

Despite outscoring SEM 23-15 across the last 10 minutes, Melbourne came up short, going down 69-84.

United will next face the Tasmania JackJumpers on November 26 for the Member Appreciation Game.

Featuring wall-to-wall activities and events as a thanks to all our members who cheer hard for United every single game, it’s a can’t miss game for all of United’s fans. Tickets remain on sale here.