The South East Melbourne Phoenix have two days’ rest from their Brisbane road trip before hosting the Cairns Taipans on Australia Day. They have been far more comfortable at Melbourne Arena, going 7-6 there this season – including two wins from their last three. We take a look at Sunday’s (26/1/2020) NBL 2020 Round 17 match which is between the South East Melbourne Phoenix and Cairns Taipans.
When: Sunday January 26, 2:05PM
Where: State Basketball Centre
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Preview:
The 13-10 Taipans have surged to third on the ladder; a win here would really consolidate their semi-final ambitions. They have won six of their last seven, including a 108-91 home victory over the 36ers in Round 16. The bad news is they are just 3-7 on the road. This is the club’s first road trip since Boxing Day.
The teams’ two matches so far have been split one home victory apiece. The Phoenix overcame the Taipans in overtime 112-105, with John Roberson, Adam Gibson and Mitch Creek combining for 82 points. The Taipans responded with a 92-84 win two weeks later as Cameron Oliver (25 pts, 10 reb) and Scott Machado (29 pts, 8 ast) starred.
The home-court factor is a concern, but the Taipans have been playing far better ball of late and are offering up a decent head-to-head price.
Odds:
Tip: Cairns Taipans at $1.77
*Odds correct at time of posting. Subject to change