NBL Prediction: Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne Phoenix (14-11-2026)

Melbourne United face South East Melbourne Phoenix at John Cain Arena on Saturday, November 14, in the third Throwdown of the NBL season.

United enter the derby with a 7-6 record, while the Phoenix have slipped to 4-8 following three consecutive defeats.

Both teams are averaging approximately 98 points per game, although their defensive records tell different stories.

Melbourne have been considerably more reliable at that end of the court, while South East Melbourne’s recent games have featured some particularly high scores.

A derby between two fast-paced teams offers more betting possibilities than simply picking the winner.

At 22Bet, basketball bettors can explore full-game totals alongside live markets, allowing them to focus on the combined score rather than the final result.

The over/under market is particularly relevant given the scoring patterns of both Melbourne clubs.

South East Melbourne lead the NBL in adjusted tempo this season, with Melbourne United ranking second.

Both teams have exceeded 199.5 combined points in three of their last five league games, although neither has been consistently above that mark.

United scored 120 points against Brisbane and 113 against Cairns during their recent four-game winning streak.

Cole Anthony has been the main offensive threat, averaging 24.5 points per game, while Josh Oduro provides another reliable scoring option inside.

That interior advantage could prove important.

Melbourne lead the league with 48.5 points in the paint per game, and the Phoenix have allowed 120 paint points across their latest two defeats.

South East Melbourne conceded 110 against Sydney before giving up 120 to Illawarra on Wednesday.

The Phoenix remain dangerous offensively despite their struggles. Nathan Sobey has averaged 26 points across his last two appearances, helping his side score 99 and 110 in those defeats.

However, the departure of guard Skylar Mays, who averaged 11.7 points and four assists, introduces some uncertainty into the rotation.

The teams’ previous meetings offer contrasting evidence. Melbourne won 104-99 in October, producing 203 combined points, but their September encounter finished just 86-61.

United’s stronger defensive record is another concern, with opponents averaging only 91.7 points against them.

Still, South East Melbourne’s pace and defensive vulnerability create opportunities for another productive night.

If Melbourne can exploit the paint while the Phoenix maintain their recent offensive output, the combined score could reach 200 points.