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South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats Tips – NBL Round 16

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Last updated: 09 Jan 2026
Ryan Tucker 09 Jan 2026
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  • South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats expert predictions for Saturday’s Round 16 NBL matchup
  • Tip-off is at 8:00 PM AEDT at State Basketball Centre
  • Perth Wildcats predicted to win after strategic prep.
  • Phoenix may struggle post-emotional OT game.
  • Take Perth to cover the +4 line as underdogs.
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kristian doolittle
Kristian Doolittle of the Wildcats drives to the basket against John Brown III of the Phoenix. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Phoenix vs Wildcats NBL Tips & Predictions


The third meeting of the season between South East Melbourne and Perth sets up as a classic letdown spot for the home side, with the Wildcats tipped to claw one back on Saturday night.

South East Melbourne are coming off an emotional overtime win against Illawarra on Thursday. While they remain in the same venue, the physical and mental toll of that game cannot be ignored, particularly against a Perth side entering fresh at the tail end of their longest road trip of the season.

Match Details: Phoenix vs Wildcats


  • Competition: NBL26
  • Match: South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats
  • Date: Saturday, 10 January 2026
  • Start Time: 8:00 PM AEDT
  • Venue: State Basketball Centre

Best Betting Tips - Phoenix vs Wildcats


Perth +4.5


Both previous meetings this season were tight, with margins of one and five points. Perth controlled large portions of both games but faltered late. With South East Melbourne on short rest, this shapes as a much stronger closing opportunity for the Wildcats.

Perth +1.5 First Quarter


South East Melbourne have lost five of their last six opening quarters. Perth won the first quarter in both earlier matchups and should again look to start aggressively.

Kristian Doolittle Over 26.5 Points, Rebounds & Assists


Doolittle has been a consistent contributor on this road trip and has covered this line in three of his last four games against the Phoenix. His versatility allows him to impact scoring, rebounding and playmaking without relying on any single metric.

Key Matchup to Watch


Phoenix Energy Levels vs Perth Control


South East Melbourne rely heavily on late-game execution. Perth’s ability to stay composed for four quarters will be crucial, particularly if the Phoenix show any early signs of fatigue.

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats Frequently Asked Questions

What time does South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats start?

Tip-off between South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats is at 8:00 PM AEDT, Saturday, January 10

What channel is South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats on?

You can watch South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Perth Wildcats on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel.

Verdict

South East Melbourne remain one of the league’s best teams, but this scheduling spot favours Perth. With rest, motivation and prior matchup data all leaning toward the Wildcats, taking the points and the early quarter line presents strong value.
Best Bet1: Perth +4.5 Line @9/10 at Elitebet - 2 Units
Best Bet2: Perth +1.5 1st Qtr Line @7/8 at Pandabet - 3 Units
Best Bet3: K Doolittle over 26.5 Points, Rebounds & Assists @17/20 at PlayUP - 1 Unit
Perth +4.5
Line
@9/10 - 2 Units
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Perth +1.5
1st Qtr Line
@7/8 - 3 Units
Pandabet
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Bet at Pandabet
K Doolittle over 26.5
Points, Rebounds & Assists
@17/20 - 1 Unit
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Bet at PlayUP

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