NBL Round 18 preview, tips & betting predictions | February 1-4

With just three rounds to go, the finals race is heating up as no teams are mathematically eliminated from contention. With 14 wins expected to be the pass mark to guarantee post-season action, expect some highly contested basketball in the six matches this weekend. Here are our previews for Round 18 of the 2023-24 NBL season:

Cairns Taipans vs Tasmania JackJumpers preview

Thursday, February 1 – 6:30pm AEST – Cairns Convention Centre

Despite sitting third in the standings, the Tasmania JackJumpers have still not secured their finals position. After winning just one of their past four matches, the JackJumpers need to turn their form around quickly to improve on their .500 record. The Taipans are also in a run of bad form, losing their last two and now needing to win all three remaining matches to earn a play-in spot. Winners of the past four clashes between the sides, the JackJumpers come into this match as bookmaker favourites, but with the unpredictable form of both sides, this match could produce anything.

Adelaide 36ers vs Sydney Kings preview

Friday, February 2 – 7:00pm ACDT – Adelaide Entertainment Centre

Winners of five of their past six matches, the Adelaide 36ers have miraculously kept their finals hopes alive despite their horrific start to the season. Still needing at least three wins to remain in contention for the play-in spots, the 36ers have an excellent chance to continue their good form as they welcome the inconsistent Sydney Kings. Defending their title, the Kings have been incredibly underwhelming this season, sitting below .500 with just three matches to go. After losing to the 36ers just three weeks ago, the Kings will need a much better performance to get up here.

Illawarra Hawks vs Brisbane Bullets preview

Saturday, February 3 – 5:30pm AEDT-WIN Entertainment Centre

The two sides sitting in the bottom six positions, this match has the potential to define a season, with the winner almost securing their finals spot, whilst the loser will tumble down the standings. After sitting in last place, the Hawks have found form at the right time of the year, climbing their way up to sixth after consecutive victories. Similarly, the Bullets have also clicked at the back end of the season, winning five of their last seven. With the Bullets winning both matches in Brisbane this season, it is the Hawks turn to show their strength at home.

Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne Phoenix preview

Saturday, February 3 – 8:00pm AEDT – John Cain Arena

After alternating wins and losses for their past seven matches, Melbourne United now find their position at the top under threat for the first time this season. Having already secured a home final, United will now be looking to win their remaining four matches to secure the top spot. Facing a Phoenix side with just one win from their past seven matches, expect United to return to form and keep the gap at the top.

Tasmania JackJumpers vs Adelaide 36ers preview

Sunday, February 4 – 2:00pm AEDT – MyState Bank Arena

Two sides are playing their second match of the weekend; it is another season-defining match for their finals participation. The 36ers come into this match in much better form with five wins from their past six, but playing away, they may struggle. With the potential to lock in their finals spot, the JackJumpers should get the job done in front of their home crowd after winning the past four matchups between the sides.

Perth Wildcats vs New Zealand Breakers preview

Sunday, February 4 – 1:00pm AWST – RAC Arena

Currently the most feared team in the NBL, the Perth Wildcats will be looking to keep the pressure on first place as they welcome the Breakers. Facing the longest away trip in the competition, the Breakers will be up against it as their finals hopes are hanging on by a thread. With Wildcats guard Bryce Cotton well on his way to securing his fourth NBL MVP, watch out for him to tear this match apart.

Top basketball bookmakers for NBL24 season

Recommended!

The Better Bettors!

Australian-owned and operated bookmaker!

Join MarantelliBet

18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?

Fast Payouts

50% matched deposit up to USD $5,000

Visit BetOnline

More sports betting tips