NBL R19 preview, predictions & tips | February 9-11

With just two rounds to go, the NBL regular season is reaching its conclusion as sides fight for post-season positions. With one win separating fourth place from ninth, each of the six games this weekend will have major implications on the finals picture. Here are our match previews for round 19 of the 2023/24 NBL season.

New Zealand Breakers vs Illawarra Hawks

Friday, February 9 – 7:30pm NZDT – Spark Arena

With three wins in a row, the Hawks have made a remarkable climb up to fourth in the standings. With 13 wins being the likely pass mark to make the play-in tournament, Illawarra now need just one more win from their remaining four games. This weekend they travel to face a Breakers side that is also in good form, winning three of its past four to keep the team’s faint finals hopes alive. Whilst the Hawks have won both clashes between the sides this season, there is much more on the line for the Breakers, who should deliver a spirited performance at home.

Brisbane Bullets vs Adelaide 36ers

Friday, February 9 – 6:30pm AEST – Nissan Arena

After winning six of their previous seven matches, the Adelaide 36ers’ finals hopes took a major blow last weekend as they went down to the JackJumpers. Now needing to win both remaining matches and have results go their way, the 36ers face a tough trip to Brisbane. Sitting in sixth place, this match is the most important of the Bullets’ season as a win could see them climb to fourth, whilst a loss could almost end their season. Although the 36ers come into this match in better form, the home side has won the past four clashes between the pair.

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Saturday, February 10 – 5:30pm AEDT – John Cain Arena

Sitting at the bottom of the standings after losing seven of their past eight, it is now impossible for the Phoenix to make the finals this season. Hosting the third-placed JackJumpers, the Phoenix are playing for pride and in hopes to avoid the wooden spoon. The JackJumpers are still in contention for a top-two spot if the Wildcats stumble, so this is a must-win match for the Tasmanian side.

Perth Wildcats vs Cairns Taipans

Saturday, February 10 – 5pm AWST – RAC Arena

After their exceptional run throughout the middle of the season, the Perth Wildcats have had a slight stumble over the last two weeks, losing their past two home games. As a result, they have missed their chance to jump into first in the standings. Needing just one win to secure their top-two spot, Perth welcome the struggling Taipans this weekend. On a three-match losing streak, it looks unlikely that Cairns can cause an upset here.

Melbourne United vs New Zealand Breakers

Sunday, February 11 – 2pm AEDT – John Cain Arena

With their dominant percentage, Melbourne United need just one more win to secure top spot in the NBL standings. Alternating wins and losses over the past eight weeks, United will be keen to end their season on a good run to carry some momentum into the finals series. Welcoming the Breakers, who play their second match of the weekend, expect United to be too strong as squad rotation plays a part in the Breakers line-up.

Sydney Kings vs Illawarra Hawks

Sunday, February 11 – 4pm AEDT – Qudos Bank Arena

Sitting two games under .500 despite being in fifth spot, this is a must-win match for the Sydney Kings as they face the in-form Hawks. Playing their second match of the weekend, Illawarra face a quick turnaround from their trip to New Zealand. The season record sits 2-1 in the Kings’ favour, and after losing four of their past five, this is a must-win clash for Sydney if they are going to make any impact in the finals series.

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