A thrilling HoopsFest showdown between the NBL's top teams, the South East Melbourne Phoenix and the Adelaide 36ers, left fans on the edge of their seats. With a standout performance, the Phoenix emerged victorious, despite the absence of their key player, Nathan Sobey.
In Sobey's absence, Ian Clark stepped up and delivered an exceptional game, showcasing his NBA and NBL championship pedigree. Clark's 27 points, coupled with his four rebounds and three assists, were a testament to his ability to fill the void left by Sobey.
But here's where it gets controversial... Clark's performance wasn't the only factor in the Phoenix's success. The team's collective effort, especially in the first and fourth quarters, was remarkable. They went on two impressive runs, scoring 16 straight points in the first and sealing the deal with 15 consecutive points in the fourth.
And this is the part most people miss... the Phoenix's dominance on the offensive boards. They grabbed 15 offensive rebounds to the 36ers' seven, giving them multiple second-chance opportunities. This advantage, coupled with forcing 16 turnovers from Adelaide, was the difference-maker.
John Brown III and Jordan Hunter were instrumental inside, combining for 34 points and 15 rebounds. Owen Foxwell's performance as point guard was also noteworthy, dishing out 12 assists and scoring 15 points. Wes Iwundu and Malique Lewis also contributed significantly, with Iwundu's three-pointers and Lewis' block leading to a momentum-shifting dunk.
Despite Bryce Cotton's valiant effort, scoring 30 points and dishing out six assists on his old home court, Adelaide couldn't keep up with the Phoenix's relentless attack. Isaac Humphries and Zylan Cheatham added double-digit points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Phoenix's well-rounded performance.
The game started with a bang for the 36ers, who jumped out to an early 9-2 lead. However, the Phoenix quickly turned the tide, going on a 16-0 run, including back-to-back three-pointers from Iwundu. The inside presence of Hunter and Brown III was crucial, and the Phoenix entered the first quarter break leading 31-23.
In the second quarter, Cotton kept Adelaide in the game with his 16 points, but the rest of the team struggled to find their rhythm. The Phoenix maintained their composure, leading 53-43 at halftime, thanks to Foxwell's steady play.
Throughout the third quarter, South East Melbourne continued to find answers, drawing fouls on Cotton and limiting his impact. Despite Cotton's 23 points at the end of the third, the Phoenix led 81-69, with their offensive rebounds proving pivotal.
Early in the fourth, the Phoenix extended their lead to 16 points, thanks to Malique Lewis' and-one play and another three from Clark. This sparked a game-clinching 15-0 run, and the Phoenix cruised to a 19-point victory, outscoring the 36ers 106-80 after the initial slow start.
The Phoenix now have a quick turnaround, hosting the New Zealand Breakers on Wednesday night in the Ignite Cup. Meanwhile, the 36ers travel to Auckland to face the Breakers on Friday at Spark Arena.
HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2025/26 - HOOPSFEST
SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX 108 (Clark 27, Hunter 20, Foxwell 15)
ADELAIDE 36ERS 89 (Cotton 30, Humphries 13, Cheatham 12)
BOX SCORE: https://www.nbl.com.au/matches/adelaide-36ers-v-south-east-melbourne-phoenix-men-18-01-2026
So, what do you think? Was it Clark's heroics or the Phoenix's collective effort that led to their victory? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this thrilling NBL matchup!
