Sleeping Giant May Have Awoken; Where Stumbling No.1 Seed Can Improve — NBL Power Rankings
The NBL ladder is intensifying as Melbourne United remains dominant, yet teams like the Phoenix and 36ers are proving formidable challengers. Injuries and inconsistency are disrupting the middle and lower parts of the table, while this round’s games could reshuffle the genuine title contenders.
Melbourne United Overview
- Record: 9-1
- Offensive Rank: 1st
- Defensive Rank: 1st
- Previous Rank: 1st
Melbourne United came close to a perfect 10-0 start, but their winning streak was halted by a narrow 95–92 loss to the Sydney Kings at John Cain Arena. Despite this setback, the team's performance remains remarkable, especially with their first defeat arriving more than a third through the season.
"Winning ten straight games to start a season is a remarkable feat, and if your first loss comes more than a third of the way through the campaign - things are going pretty well."
United is still awaiting the return of Shea Ili, whose comeback is expected to further strengthen the roster and help sustain their position as the NBL's top defensive team.
Upcoming Matchup
Attention now turns to the upcoming rematch against the Illawarra Hawks at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong, revisiting the excitement of the NBL25 Finals.
"Attention now turns to tonight’s matchup - a rematch of the NBL25 Finals - against the Illawarra Hawks at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong."
Summary
Melbourne United’s impressive start faces a crucial test as other teams gain momentum, with key players returning to tip the balance in this heated NBL season.