NBL Round 13 preview, tips & betting predictions | 28/12 – 1/1

The NBL holiday season continues with non-stop Australian basketball action leading us into the new year. Here are our previews for the Round 13 matches of the 2023-24 NBL Season.

Adelaide 36ers vs Perth Wildcats

Thursday, December 28 – 7:00pm ACDT – Adelaide Entertainment Centre

After finally breaking their four-match losing streak with a win against the Brisbane Bullets on Christmas Eve, the Adelaide 36ers will be looking to get off the bottom of the standings as they welcome the Perth Wildcats. Coming off a short turnaround after playing just two days before, the Wildcats depth will be tested in a must-win clash against the worst side in the NBL. Watch out for the exciting dual between Dejan Vasiljevic and Bryce Cotton, who lead their sides for points this season.

Sydney Kings vs Cairns Taipans

Friday, December 29 – 7:30pm AEDT – Qudos Bank Arena

Dropping down to fourth in the standings after their loss to the Illawarra Hawks on Christmas Day, the Sydney Kings have now lost three of their last four matches. The Taipans are shaping up as a dark horse as the finals approach, winning three of their last four matches before Christmas. Three matches across six days are going to shape their season, with this match in Sydney likely to be the most challenging.

Brisbane Bullets vs South East Melbourne Phoenix

Saturday, December 30 – 7:00pm AEST – Nissan Arena

Desperate for a win, the Bullets have limped through December as they have plummeted down the standings. Their major struggles have come on the offensive end, as their terrible three-point percentage has ruined their offence despite the excellent form of Nathan Sobey. The Phoenix will be looking to build on their Christmas Day win as they look to climb back into the top four and are set to be boosted by the return of star forward Mitch Creek.

Illawarra Hawks vs Adelaide 36ers

Sunday, December 31 – 5:30pm AEDT – WIN Entertainment Centre

With another shock win over the Sydney Kings on Christmas Day, the Illawarra Hawks are turning their fortunes around with four wins from their last six matches. Looking to continue carrying their momentum into the new year, the Hawks face the Adelaide 36ers in a battle between the two bottom sides. The 36ers have been in terrible form lately, and with just one away win this season, they may struggle following a short turnaround.

Cairns Taipans vs Melbourne United

Sunday, December 31 – 6:30pm AEST – Cairns Convention Centre

Sitting comfortably on top of the NBL standings, Melbourne United have now won their last four matches as they head into their clash with the Cairns Taipans. Dominant across nearly every statistical category, United also have the added advantage of an eight-day break as opposed to the Taipans, who play their fourth match in ten days. The Taipans gave United one of their few losses this season, and as such, United will be keen to extend their perfect away record with a win.

Tasmania JackJumpers vs New Zealand Breakers

Monday, January 1 – 4:00pm AEDT – MyState Bank Arena

Wrapping up the packed NBL holiday schedule, the Tasmania JackJumpers are looking to continue their good season as they face the dangerous New Zealand Breakers. The JackJumpers, who are currently in third place, have displayed excellent shooting performances on both ends of the court. Expect this match to have plenty of points considering the defensive concerns of the Breakers, who will be looking for an upset after winning their last two matches.

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