This weekend’s semi-final action concludes on Sunday afternoon when the South East Melbourne Phoenix play host to the Illawarra Hawks at John Cain Arena. The Hawks took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series with a win at home on Friday night, and now the Phoenix will be looking to level it up in a do-or-die game for them on Sunday. We bring you our full game preview and best bet below!
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NBL25 Semi-Finals Preview & Betting Tips
South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Illawarra Hawks (Game 2)
Sunday 2:30pm AEDT (March 2), John Cain Arena
South East Melbourne Phoenix will look to keep their season alive as they host the Illawarra Hawks in Game 2 of their best-of-three semi-final series. The Hawks claimed Game 1 in a thrilling 101-94 victory at home, overturning a seven-point halftime deficit with a dominant 32-12 third quarter. That run proved decisive as they held off the Phoenix’s late charge to take a crucial 1-0 series lead. Now, the pressure is on South East Melbourne, who must respond in front of their home fans to force a deciding Game 3.
Illawarra’s win was powered by strong performances from Trey Kell and Tyler Harvey, who both scored 24 points. Kell was particularly impressive, adding 10 rebounds, five assists, and five three-pointers to his tally in a complete all-round effort. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute in multiple ways made him the standout player of Game 1. Veteran Todd Blanchfield also played a key role off the bench, chipping in with 16 points to provide much-needed scoring support. The Hawks’ third-quarter blitz was built on defensive intensity and transition scoring, and they will look to replicate that effort on the road in Game 2. If they can put together another strong defensive effort and limit South East Melbourne’s scoring threats, they will give themselves a real chance of securing a grand final berth.
For the Phoenix, the focus will be on producing a more consistent performance across all four quarters. Derrick Walton Jr was their best player in his return from a hamstring injury, recording 15 points and 11 assists while running the offence effectively. Joe Wieskamp was efficient with 22 points, but the big concern was Matt Hurt’s lack of involvement. The All-NBL First Team forward attempted just six shots and finished with only 10 points, well below his usual output. If the Phoenix are to extend their season, they need Hurt to be far more aggressive and assertive offensively. They also need to improve their defence after allowing the Hawks to dictate terms in the second half of Game 1.
South East Melbourne had won their previous two meetings against Illawarra before this series and have shown they are more than capable of beating the Hawks. With their season on the line, they should come out with an increased level of urgency and energy. Playing at home, where they have been strong all season, expect the Phoenix to make the necessary adjustments and level the series with a hard-fought win.
Phoenix to Win
$2.12 (1.5 Units)
