In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the South East Melbourne Phoenix have pulled off a thrilling upset victory over their crosstown rivals, the Melbourne United, in a sold-out NBL derby at John Cain Arena. The Phoenix, who had been struggling with a rocky start to the season, found themselves trailing by 10 points in the second quarter. To make matters worse, their star import point guard, Derrick Walton Jr, was forced to leave the game due to a strained right hamstring. However, the Phoenix refused to let these setbacks define their performance.
Under the guidance of their new caretaker coach, Sam Mackinnon, the Phoenix showcased a newfound spirit and determination. Captain Jordan Hunter led the charge with an impressive 20 points, while import Matt Hurt contributed 18 points to the cause. The revitalized guard Nathan Sobey also played a crucial role, adding 16 points to the team’s tally. The Phoenix thoroughly outplayed the heavily favored United down the stretch, securing a hard-fought 93-84 victory.
A New Era for the Phoenix
This win marks a significant turning point for the South East Melbourne Phoenix, who had been struggling with a 0-5 start to the season following last year’s wooden spoon. The decision to appoint Sam Mackinnon as the caretaker coach, after the dismissal of Mike Kelly last Sunday, seems to have injected a new sense of purpose and direction into the team.
We knew we had to come out with a different mindset tonight. Coach Mackinnon has instilled a new belief in us, and we were determined to show what we’re capable of.
Jordan Hunter, Phoenix Captain
Melbourne United’s Perspective
For Melbourne United, this loss comes as a shock. The team had been heavily favored going into the derby, with Ian Clark and Chris Goulding leading the charge. Goulding, who had returned to the starting five in place of the injured Shea Ili, helped United to an early 18-16 lead at quarter-time. The team’s offense seemed to be clicking in the second term, with their lead swelling to double digits.
However, the Phoenix’s increased physicality and shooting accuracy in the second quarter turned the tables on their “big brother.” Tom Vodanovich’s three triples off the bench in quick succession were particularly decisive in helping the Phoenix turn a 10-point deficit into a five-point halftime advantage.
Thrilling Fourth Quarter
Despite losing Walton to injury in the third quarter, the Phoenix refused to wilt. Sobey’s exceptional play, including a breakaway slam off a stolen Jack White pass, helped increase the Phoenix’s buffer to eight points. Melbourne made a late push, with Tanner Krebs’ triple just before three-quarter time bringing United within three points.
In the end, it was the clutch plays of Hurt and Sobey that sealed the deal for the Phoenix, warding off any hope of a late Melbourne miracle. The Phoenix’s 93-84 victory not only snaps their long NBL drought but also sends a powerful message to the rest of the league: never underestimate the heart of an underdog.
This win means everything to us. We’ve been through some tough times, but we never lost faith in ourselves or each other. Today, we showed what we’re made of.
Nathan Sobey, Phoenix Guard
Looking Ahead
As the NBL season progresses, both the South East Melbourne Phoenix and Melbourne United will have much to ponder. For the Phoenix, this win could be the spark that ignites a turnaround in their fortunes. Under the leadership of Sam Mackinnon, the team has shown that they have the talent and the determination to compete with the best in the league.
Melbourne United, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address the issues that led to this unexpected loss. With the talent on their roster, United undoubtedly has the potential to bounce back strongly. However, they will need to be wary of underestimating their opponents in the future.
As the rivalry between these two Melbourne teams continues to grow, one thing is certain: basketball fans are in for a treat. The passion, skill, and drama showcased in this thrilling derby are testaments to the enduring appeal of the NBL. With plenty of games still to come, the stage is set for more unforgettable moments and stunning upsets.
