The NBL25 Championship series heads back to Wollongong for Game 3, with the Illawarra Hawks set to host Melbourne United. The best-of-five series is tied at 1-1, and the winner of this game will move just one win away from winning the championship. It should be another cracking matchup between the two best clubs in the competition, and we have you covered with our usual game preview and best bet below!
Season record: 95-68 +32.2 Units
NBL25 Championship Series Preview & Betting Tips
Illawarra Hawks vs Melbourne United (Game 3)
Sunday 5:30pm AEDT (March 16), WIN Entertainment Centre
Illawarra and Melbourne United head into a pivotal Game 3 of the NBL25 Championship Series locked at 1-1, with the momentum now swinging towards the Hawks. United took Game 1 on the road with a resilient second-half comeback, overcoming a 10-point halftime deficit to secure an eight-point victory. However, the Hawks responded in Game 2 with a dramatic two-point win in Melbourne, capped off by Tyler Harvey’s clutch three-pointer in the dying seconds. With Game 3 set for the WIN Entertainment Centre, the Hawks have a crucial opportunity to take control of the series on their home floor, where they will also host a potential Game 5 if required.
Illawarra has had the upper hand against United in recent meetings, winning three of their last four matchups this season. Realistically, they should have a four-game winning streak if not for their collapse in Game 1. Sam Froling has been a dominant presence in the paint for the Hawks, delivering a highly efficient 23-point performance on 9/14 shooting in Game 2. Harvey, fresh off his game-winning heroics, led the way with 24 points, while Trey Kell continued to struggle offensively, shooting just 5/17 after a similarly inefficient 3/11 outing in the series opener.
For Melbourne, Ian Clark was the standout performer in Game 2, pouring in 31 points off the bench in an outstanding individual effort. Chris Goulding added 17 points but couldn’t quite get the team over the line. A major concern for United has been the lack of production from Jack White, who has struggled throughout the postseason. His confidence appears shot, as he failed to attempt a single field goal in 18 minutes of action last game. If United hopes to reclaim control of the series, they’ll need a more balanced contribution across their rotation, particularly with Illawarra’s defence proving difficult to break down in key moments.
Heading into Game 3, the Hawks are deservedly the -5.5 favourites. With the series shifting back to Wollongong, they’ll have the home-court advantage and the confidence gained from their thrilling Game 2 victory. Their ability to contain United’s key scorers while capitalising on their own offensive strengths makes them the more likely side to prevail. Expect Illawarra to defend their home court and take a crucial 2-1 series lead.
Hawks -5.5
$1.90 (1 Unit)
