NBL27 Preview - Preseason v South East Melbourne Phoenix

NBL fans are set to get their first taste of Throwdown action ahead of the start of the Hungry Jack’s NBL27 season as we head down to State Basketball Centre for a matchup with the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Saturday evening.

Both teams have started their preseasons without a loss, with each squad taking down the B.LEAGUE UNITED, while the Phoenix also possess a win over St Mary's University.

Now three weeks into their preseasons, this will be an opportunity for both teams to showcase what they’ve been working on, while getting new players some solid experience within their fresh surroundings.

WHAT’S THE WORD?

Always looking to create a competitive and productive environment throughout practice, Head Coach Jacob Chance spoke about how he has seen his sessions in terms of propelling his side towards a Championship.

“We're trying to do something really hard, we're trying to win a championship,” he said.

“When you have a competitive practice environment and you have the intent on the floor, that only helps you. 

“It's great for the young guys to see that kind of level (of intensity), it's great for our older guys to have that kind of edge of practice. Our challenge is how we can harness that to keep moving forward.”

WHO’S HOT, WHO'S NOT

Our only preseason game thus far provided the public a look at how the trio of Sam Waardenburg, Luke Travers and Joe Ingles can thrive on the court together.

Against the Japanese side, the stars combined for 52 points, 24 rebounds and 19 assists.

Saturday will be another chance for the three versatile playmakers to continue gelling.

For the Phoenix, Angus Glover has led the way, averaging 21.5 points and 5.5 three-pointers per game across his first two outings. 

DETAILS

Who: Melbourne United vs SEM Phoenix

Tip-off: 7pm AEST, Saturday 22 August, 2026

Where: State Basketball Centre, Wantirna South

Watch: Melbourne United YouTube. 

View full roster:

Josh Oduro - 2

Joe Ingles - 7

Christian D’Angelo - 11

Tom Wilson - 12

Kyle Bowen - 15

Harry Neilson - 16

Fabijan Krslovic - 18

Sam Waardenburg - 21

Luke Travers - 23

Chris Goulding - 43

Jensen Bradtke - 50

Shea Ili - 51

Wilson Amos - 61

Malik Meunier - 62

HC - David Barlow

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