NBL25 Round 17 continues on Monday night with a clash between the top-of-the-ladder Illawarra Hawks against the languishing Brisbane Bullets. The Hawks will be looking to consolidate their spot at the top with a win against the undermanned Bullets, and we have you covered with a full preview and best bet 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 Brisbane Bullets
Monday 7:30pm AEDT (Jan 20), WIN Entertainment Centre
The Illawarra Hawks take on the Brisbane Bullets in a game that could shape the rest of the season for both teams. The Hawks, sitting at the top of the ladder with a 16-8 record, are looking to stay in first place. On the other hand, the Bullets are clinging to their finals hopes, sitting eighth at 10-14 and needing to win their last four games to have any chance of sneaking into the top six. The Hawks have had Brisbane’s measure this season, winning both matchups comfortably—by 12 points at home and 18 on the road.
The Hawks are in a great spot, with a fully fit roster and the best depth in the league. They lead the league in scoring, averaging 101.4 points per game, and have shown they can pile on points quickly. Their bench players have stepped up all season, allowing them to keep the pressure on opponents for the full 40 minutes. With confidence high and everything clicking, Illawarra look ready to keep their momentum going in front of their home fans.
For the Bullets, it’s a different story. Injuries have taken a huge toll on their season, leaving them with little depth to back up their starters. On top of that, their defence has been leaky lately, giving up 105, 112, and 111 points in their last three games. Now they’re up against the league’s best offence, and it’s hard to see how they can keep the Hawks from running away with this one. Brisbane will need to tighten up defensively and find a spark if they’re going to make a game of it.
From a personnel standpoint, Josh Bannan has been more aggressive attacking the basket in Tyrell Harrison’s absence, but needs to finish better around the rim to make the most of his opportunities. Meanwhile, Sam Froling’s strong form and dominance in the paint set up an exciting big-man battle, with both players looking to assert themselves on both ends of the floor.
Everything points to a big night for Illawarra. With the Bullets struggling on both ends and the Hawks firing, this has the makings of another one-sided win. I expect the Hawks clear their 104.5 points line with ease as they look to stay in control at the top of the standings.
Hawks Over 104.5 Points
$1.80 (2 Units)
