In each week of the Hungry Jack’s NBL25 Season, we’ll provide previews of the key games, players, and discussions. Get a sneak peek of Round 17, Part 1 below. Remember, catch all the action from the NBL25 season live on ESPN.
New Zealand vs Tasmania:
- When: Thursday, January 16 – 5.30pm AEDT
- Where: Spark Arena
- Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | NZ: ESPN, TVNZ+ | International
- Scores: Download the free NBL App
Keep an eye on the JackJumpers as they battle for survival and aim to secure a post-season spot amidst key player injuries. New Zealand, coming off a strong performance against Melbourne United, seeks to hinder Tasmania’s playoff aspirations.
Players to watch:
- Matt Mooney’s standout performances will be crucial without Parker Jackson-Cartwright.
- Milton Doyle and Jordon Crawford add firepower to the JackJumpers’ lineup.
Stat: Tasmania ranks as the league’s lowest scoring team (84.5 points per game).
Missing in action: Mojave King, Sean MacDonald, Will Magnay, and Majok Deng are sidelined.
Brisbane vs Cairns:
- When: Friday, January 17 – 7.30pm AEDT
- Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | International
- Scores: Download the free NBL App
Watch for Cairns Taipans’ potent offense against an injury-riddled Brisbane Bullets team. Despite the challenges, the Bullets aim to secure a playoff spot with a win.
Players to watch:
- Casey Prather leads the Bullets’ charge.
- Sam Waardenburg contributes significantly for Cairns.
Stat: Brisbane boasts the tallest team but struggles in defense rebounds.
Missing in action: Sam McDaniel, James Batemon, Tyrell Harrison, Deng Adel, and Emmet Naar are out.
Perth vs Adelaide:
- When: Friday, January 17 – 9.30pm AEDT
- Where: RAC Arena
- Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | International
- Scores: Download the free NBL App
A crucial matchup for Adelaide to secure a playoff spot. The Wildcats’ stellar form poses a challenge, with the game marking their return home after a long road stretch.
Players to watch:
- MVP candidates Kendric Davis and Bryce Cotton headline the showdown.
- Adelaide’s roster, featuring Montrezl Harrell, DJ Vasiljevic, and Isaac Humphries, adds depth.
Stat: Bryce Cotton leads the league in scoring.
Missing in action: Tai Webster is sidelined.
South East Melbourne vs New Zealand:
- When: Saturday, January 18 – 5.30pm AEDT
- Where: State Basketball Centre
- Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | International
- Scores: Download the free NBL App
Phoenix aims to secure home court advantage, while the Breakers seek to shake up the standings. Key players like Angus Glover and Owen Foxwell step up in Derrick Walton Jr’s absence.
Players to watch:
- Breakers boast a strong lineup with Matt Mooney, Parker-Jackson Cartwright, and Tacko Fall.
- Phoenix look to capitalize on the Breakers’ weaknesses in shooting.
Stat: New Zealand struggles in free throw and three-point shooting.
Missing in action: Derrick Walton Jr is out for the season.
Illawarra vs Melbourne:
- When: Saturday, January 18 – 8.00pm AEDT
- Where: WIN Entertainment Centre
- Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | International
- Scores: Download the free NBL App
A top-two clash with implications on the regular season finish. Hawks seek to secure a top spot, while Melbourne aims to close the gap.
Players to watch:
- Trey Kell III leads the Hawks’ guard play.
- Chris Goulding shines for Melbourne with sharpshooting abilities.
Stat: Illawarra leads in points per game.
No players missing in action for this matchup.