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Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United Tips - NBL Round 16 Preview

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Last updated: 09 Jan 2026
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Ryan Tucker 09 Jan 2026
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  • Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United expert predictions for Sunday’s Round 16 NBL matchup
  • Tip-off is at 4:30 PM AEDT at Qudos Bank Arena
  • Sydney Kings lead the series 2-1 against Melbourne United.
  • Kings' offense remains strong; Melbourne has declined post-break.
  • Key focus on Kings' ball security vs. United's shooting.
kendric davis
Kendric Davis of the Kings. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)

Kings vs United NBL Tips & Predictions


Sydney and Melbourne meet for the fourth time this season with the Kings holding a 2-1 edge in the series and arriving in far better form since the FIBA break.

The Kings have quietly become one of the most efficient teams in the league, while Melbourne’s early-season dominance has faded dramatically. With Sydney controlling tempo, protecting the ball and scoring consistently, this matchup again shapes in their favour on home court.

Match Details: Kings vs United


  • Competition: NBL26
  • Match: Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United
  • Date: Sunday, 11 January 2026
  • Start Time: 4:30 PM AEDT
  • Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney

Best Betting Angles - Kings vs United


Sydney Kings to Win


Sydney have won two of the three meetings this season and have scored at least 92 points in all three games against United. Since the international break, the Kings rank 2nd in scoring and 3rd in defensive rating, while Melbourne have slipped to 6th offensively and 7th defensively.

United are also just 1-4 in their last five road games, making this a difficult spot to arrest their slide.

Sydney Team Total Over


Melbourne’s defence has been a major concern since Round 11, allowing 93.8 points per game, compared to just 85.9 across the opening ten rounds. Sydney’s ability to generate clean looks while committing the fewest turnovers in the league puts sustained scoreboard pressure on opponents.

Even in slower-paced games, the Kings have found ways to reach their scoring numbers against United.

Kendric Davis Points Over


Davis continues to be the driver of Sydney’s offence and has consistently torched Melbourne. He averages 26 points per game against United across his NBL career, including 26 and 34 points in his last two meetings.

With Melbourne struggling to contain primary ball handlers and Davis coming off a reduced-minute outing against New Zealand, another high-usage performance looms.

Key Matchup to Watch


Sydney Ball Security vs Melbourne Shooting


Sydney rank 1st in turnover rate, while Melbourne’s shooting efficiency has collapsed since the break. If United fail to rediscover perimeter touch early, Sydney’s ability to limit extra possessions will quickly tilt the game out of reach.

Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United start?

Tip-off between Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United is at 4:30 PM AEDT, Sunday, January 11

What channel is Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United on?

You can watch Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel.

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