South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Cairns Taipans, National Basketball League (AUS), Today Match Prediction

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Cairns Taipans Basteball Odds

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South East Melbourne Phoenix

South East Melbourne Phoenix is coming off a 123-116 NBL win over the New Zealand Breakers, which was a showcase of high-octane scoring and depth. Ian Clark (24) and Wes Iwundu (23) led the Phoenix attack, with five players hitting multiple triples. Nathan Sobey added 19 points and seven assists, while Jordan Hunter chipped in with 17 points.

Offensively, SEM shot an efficient 55% from the field, including 42.9% from the perimeter and 89.5% from the free throw line, while dishing out 24 assists. Defensively, they got outrebounded 36-37 on the boards, but managed to force the visitors to commit 12 turnovers and 19 fouls.

This win keeps SEM in title contention and underlines their offensive firepower in the 2025-26 NBL season. Overall, the team has been averaging 97.8 points per game, while dishing out 19.7 assists per game. Defensively, they record 47.2 rebounds and allow opponents to just 88.3 points per game.

Cairns Taipans

The Cairns Taipans endured a tough night in the NBL Round 18 clash, going down 106-69 to the Perth Wildcats at RAC Arena in a result that underlined the gaps in execution and energy for Cairns. Despite the loss, Jack McVeigh delivered a standout performance, scoring 34 points and 4 rebounds, the lone double-digit scorer, while the remaining supporting cast failed to provide enough support.

Offensively, Cairns Taipans struggled to establish rhythm, converting just 37.7% from the field, including 33.3% from the perimeter and 87.5% from the free throw line. Defensively, they got outrebounded 43-27, allowing the Wildcats to dominate the second chance opportunities. They also committed 10 turnovers and 13 fouls, causing multiple momentum swings and points off turnovers.

The Taipans now face reflection on both ends of the floor as they look to regroup for their next NBL outing. Overall, the team has been averaging 86.2 points per game, while dishing out 17.6 assists per game. Defensively, they record 38.4 rebounds and allow opponents to score 101.4 points per game.

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Cairns Taipans Starting Lineups

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Cairns Taipans Match Prediction & Analysis

South East Melbourne Phoenix host the Cairns Taipans on 24 January 2026 with momentum firmly on their side. The Phoenix enter in strong form, powered by elite scoring depth and perimeter shooting. Cairns arrive struggling for consistency and defensive stability, needing a big response led by Jack McVeigh to challenge a confident Phoenix lineup.

Current Standings

South East Melbourne Phoenix is currently 2nd in the NBL standings with an 18-8 record, while Cairns Taipans is 9th in the standings with a 7-19 record.

Head-to-Head matchups

In the last five head-to-head matchups, South East Melbourne Phoenix has managed to win all five matches against the Cairns Taipans.

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Cairns Taipans Player Stats

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX vs CAIRNS TAIPANS
Winning Prediction

South East Melbourne Phoenix’s superior depth, offensive firepower, and recent form give them a clear edge at home. Cairns may compete early through Jack McVeigh’s scoring, but Phoenix’s pace, three-point shooting, and defensive pressure should pull them clear in the second half. We are backing the South East Melbourne Phoenix to win this matchup.

South East Melbourne Phoenix to Win and Cover the Spread (-16.5)

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