In a thrilling display of basketball prowess, the South East Melbourne Phoenix soared past the league-leading Adelaide 36ers in a game that was as much about resilience as it was about skill. But here's where it gets controversial: Can a team truly shine without one of its star players? The Phoenix answered with a resounding 'yes' as they dominated HoopsFest, despite the absence of Nathan Sobey due to illness. And this is the part most people miss—it wasn't just about filling a void; it was about rising to the occasion in spectacular fashion.
The Phoenix’s 108-89 victory was a statement win, fueled by Ian Clark’s stellar performance. Clark, an NBA and NBL champion, stepped into Sobey’s role seamlessly, delivering 27 points, four rebounds, and three assists on an impressive 5/9 three-point shooting. His leadership and precision were pivotal, but he wasn’t alone. John Brown III and Jordan Hunter dominated the paint, combining for 34 points and 15 rebounds, including seven offensive boards that kept the Phoenix in control.
The game’s turning points came in the first and fourth quarters, where the Phoenix unleashed 16-0 and 15-0 runs, respectively. These bursts of scoring not only showcased their offensive firepower but also their ability to capitalize on the 36ers’ 16 turnovers. Boldly put, this game was a masterclass in adaptability and teamwork.
Adelaide, despite Bryce Cotton’s 30-point effort, struggled to keep pace. The 36ers’ back-to-back losses raise questions about their consistency, especially after their earlier defeat to Tasmania. Is this a sign of vulnerability for the league leaders, or just a temporary setback?
The Phoenix’s victory narrows the gap between the top two teams, with the Phoenix now at 17-8 and the 36ers at 19-6. Looking ahead, both teams face tough matchups: the Phoenix host the New Zealand Breakers on Wednesday in an Ignite Cup clash, while the 36ers travel to Auckland for a Friday showdown at Spark Arena.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With Sobey’s absence proving not to be a fatal blow, does this highlight the Phoenix’s depth or expose the 36ers’ reliance on key players? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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
