NBL25 Round 17 continues on Saturday night with an epic double-header! Second to go is a mouth-watering matchup between first and second in the standings. It’s the Illawarra Hawks vs Melbourne United, and we have a full betting preview for the game below!
Also, we’re providing previews and expert betting tips for every game of the NBL25 season, so make sure to head over to our NBL Tips page regularly to keep up to date with all of our content.
NBL25 Round 17 Preview & Betting Tips
Illawarra Hawks vs Melbourne United
Saturday 8:00pm AEDT (Jan 18), WIN Entertainment Centre
The Illawarra Hawks (15-8) take on Melbourne United (15-9) in a top-of-the-table clash that promises plenty of fireworks. These two have split their season series so far, with the Hawks winning the most recent meeting in Melbourne by 13 points. With first place on the line, this matchup is shaping up as one of the games of the season.
The Hawks are coming off a tough three-point loss to the 36ers but had won two straight before that. Sam Froling was unstoppable in the Adelaide game, dropping 35 points and pulling down 13 rebounds, but he didn’t get enough help from his teammates. Trey Kell, despite struggling with his shot last game (3/14), has been enjoying a career-best season and will be keen to bounce back in front of the home crowd. The Hawks have been hard to beat at home and will be looking to use their depth and defensive pressure to stay on top of the ladder.
United, meanwhile, have been grinding out wins in tight contests. They’ve won their last two games by a combined five points, including a thrilling two-point victory over the Breakers thanks to Chris Goulding’s ridiculous deep three at the buzzer. Goulding has been sensational this season, but United isn’t just a one-man show. Jack White and Matthew Dellavedova have also been key contributors, providing versatility and leadership. White’s energy on both ends of the court and Dellavedova’s ability to control the tempo have been vital in United’s push for the top two.
This matchup pits the Hawks’ balanced and defensive-minded approach against United’s ability to thrive in close games, led by their stars. For the Hawks, Froling will need to dominate inside again, while Kell and others must step up offensively. United will look to Goulding for another big performance, but support from White, Dellavedova, and the rest of the roster will be crucial in what’s sure to be a hostile environment.
With home-court advantage and a recent win over United under their belt, the Hawks should be full of confidence. This one is likely to go down to the wire, but Illawarra’s depth and ability to execute in key moments at home could be the deciding factor. Expect a hard-fought battle, but the Hawks look set to edge out United and solidify their position at the top of the ladder.
Hawks to Win
$1.70 (2 Units)
