The first of two deciding Game 3’s in the semi-finals is set to take place on Tuesday night, with Melbourne United playing host to the Perth Wildcats at John Cain Arena. The stakes are high, with the winner moving onto the Grand Final series, while it’s season over for the loser. We bring you our full game preview and best bet below!
Season record: 94-65 +35.13 Units
NBL25 Semi-Finals Preview & Betting Tips
Melbourne United vs Perth Wildcats (Game 3)
Tuesday 7:30pm AEDT (March 4), John Cain Arena
Melbourne United and the Perth Wildcats face off in a high-stakes Game 3 of their NBL semi-final series, with the winner securing a spot in the Grand Final and the loser’s season coming to an end. The series is tied at 1-1 after both teams successfully defended home court in the opening two games. United, who finished the regular season with a superior record, have home court advantage for this deciding clash, and they will be eager to capitalise on it after a frustrating collapse in Game 2.
United started the series strongly with a 105-93 victory in Game 1 at John Cain Arena, largely thanks to an incredible shooting performance from Chris Goulding. The veteran guard torched the Wildcats with 41 points, including 10 three-pointers, as United's offence exploded in the second half. However, Game 2 in Perth told a different story. Despite leading by as much as 20 points in the second quarter and still holding an 11-point advantage at three-quarter time, United let their grip on the contest slip. The Wildcats fought back with a more aggressive defensive approach, particularly shutting down Goulding, who was held scoreless for nearly the entire second half and finished with just 15 points on 6-18 shooting.
Dylan Windler was the standout for Perth in Game 2, delivering a dominant performance with 27 points and 11 rebounds on an efficient 9-14 shooting. His energy, shot-making, and ability to ignite the crowd played a crucial role in the Wildcats’ remarkable comeback. Another key factor was United’s struggles at the free throw line, with Jack White going 2-8 and missing critical opportunities to maintain his team’s lead. The Wildcats, known for their resilience in big moments, took full advantage and ensured the series would return to Melbourne for a deciding Game 3.
Despite their second-half struggles in Perth, United enter the decider as favourites. They had won five consecutive matchups against the Wildcats before their recent loss and have consistently been the better team throughout the season. Playing at home is another major advantage, as they have looked dominant at John Cain Arena. If they can regain their offensive rhythm and tighten up defensively, United should be well-placed to advance to the Grand Final.
With everything on the line, expect a fierce battle between two teams that have been among the league’s best all season. However, with home court advantage and greater overall quality, United should bounce back and seal their place in the Grand Final.
United -2.5
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