36ers vs Phoenix NBL Tips & Predictions
This Semi Final series has delivered the momentum swings expected of a playoff matchup and now comes down to a decisive Game 3 in Adelaide.
Adelaide have shot well above their season averages in both games of this series. Since Round 18 they have been one of the most efficient shooting teams in the league, ranking second in effective field goal percentage while hitting over 50% from the field and 37.3% from three-point range.
Game 2 highlighted just how dangerous the 36ers offence can be. Adelaide committed 18 turnovers and attempted 25 fewer shots than South East Melbourne but still only lost by nine points.
South East Melbourne were lifted by a massive individual performance from Nathan Sobey in Game 2, who scored 41 points to force the deciding game. However the Phoenix defence remains a concern heading into the decider.
Across the series Adelaide have consistently found scoring opportunities through Bryce Cotton’s offensive gravity, opening up interior scoring chances for players like Zylan Cheatham and Nick Rakocevic.
If the Phoenix cannot improve their defensive resistance in the paint and around Cotton’s scoring actions, Adelaide should have the edge at home in the deciding matchup.
Match Details: 36ers vs Phoenix
- Competition: NBL26
- Match: Adelaide 36ers vs South East Melbourne Phoenix
- Date: Tuesday
- Start Time: 7:30 PM AEDT
- Venue: Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Best Betting Tips – 36ers vs Phoenix
Adelaide -1.5
Adelaide’s efficient offence and home court advantage give them the edge in the series decider.
Nick Rakocevic 15+ Points & 20+ Points
Rakocevic has become a consistent interior scoring option and continues to benefit from defensive attention on Cotton. He has averaged 16.1 points across his last seven games and has scored 18+ points in four of his last six outings.
Nathan Sobey Over 32.5 PRA
Sobey remains the offensive catalyst for the Phoenix and has cleared this line in five consecutive games.
Key Matchup to Watch
Phoenix Defence vs Adelaide Efficiency
South East Melbourne rely heavily on scoring efficiency to win games, but Adelaide’s balanced scoring attack has exposed defensive weaknesses throughout the series.
If Adelaide continue generating high-percentage looks inside and maintain their shooting efficiency, they should be able to control the tempo of the decider.