With the festive season fast approaching there’s not as much NBL action as usual, but we still look forward to the match-ups on offer as we have our 2016 NBL Round 12 preview and betting tips.
NBL Round 12 Betting Tips
Adelaide 36ers Vs Perth Wildcats (Thursday, December 22nd at 7:00pm ACST)
The 36ers have taken the NBL by storm in 2016. They are currently on a 7-game winning streak including a Round 11 double against the Kings. The most positive aspect of the 36ers at the moment is they haven’t been relying on a single player. Over the last two games, Jerome Randle dropped 24 and 19 respectively and had 15 assists across the last two games, but aside from his consistent performances, it has been a real team effort. Adelaide has simply come into form in the last few weeks with players like Daniel Johnson and Nathan Sobey starting to really gel in the team.
Perth, meanwhile, is second last on the ladder and playing like it. Injuries have taken their toll on the reigning champions. Hopefully they will be able to get out of this one unscathed, but I can't see them a chance at getting the win.
Tip: Adelaide 36ers at the line (-3.5) - $1.93 at CrownBet
Sydney Kings Vs Illawarra Hawks (Friday, December 23rd at 7:30pm AEDT)
The Kings have been dethroned. After sitting at the top of the ladder for the majority of the season, Sydney now sit 3rd after a losing double last weekend against the 36ers. Adding to their 5 losses from the last 7 starts, Sydney failed to defensively contain Adelaide last week. During transitions they gave up 61 points from fast breaks across the two games. Offensively, however, the Kings are fine. Lisch, Cadee and Newley are some of the best shooters in the league. But they will need to refocus their defensive efforts if they don't want to slide further down the tight ladder.
The Hawks are sitting second and they are perhaps still not getting the respect they deserve. In recent weeks they have completely reinvented themselves. With a new fast-paced game plan, the Hawks are wrong footing teams everytime they take the court. It can’t go unsaid that they blew a dominate first half against the Taipans, but there first half effort was second to none. Against the Bullets, meanwhile, their speed granted them 41 break away points in a 6-point victory.
This one will be interesting. Sydney needs to start winning and need to find a way to revitalise their defence, while the Hawks speed wil l be hard to contain. Thinking this one is a close one.
Tip: Either Team By Under 7points - $2.34 at CrownBet
Melbourne United Vs Brisbane Bullets (Monday, December 26th at 7:30pm AEDT)
When these two teams faced off last weekend, the Bullets were ultimately successful winning 100-90. Jermaine Beal was shooting like a man on a mission. He scored at 75% including 8-8 from inside the arch. Torrey Craig had a slower game, but still managed 9 points 5 boards and an assist.
On this occasion, Melbourne's effort were all on the back of Chris Goulding. He's taken a back seat to Casper Ware over the last few weeks, but had a field day, scoring 24 points and 6 assists. Goulding's passing has been pin-point in recent weeks and was no exception during this one. Todd Blanchfield certainly came to play aswell, dropping 20 point, 4 boards and 2 assists. Casper Ware however had a relatively slow game against the Bullets and we can’t see that happening again. Ware has been averaging a league high 23.17ppg along with 2.67 boards and 5.17 assists.
With this one being played under the night's sky on Boxing Day, we can expect the United faithful to be out in full and the atmosphere to be electric. Backing the home side to get a solid win.
Tip: Melbourne United -4.5 - $1.87 at CrownBet
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Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!
