Sobey adds more hurt to United's FIBA hangover

• Phoenix record biggest Throwdown win ever with 111–86 demolition of United.
• United lose two straight again, struggling for rhythm without coach Dean Vickerman.
• Sobey explodes for 25 as Phoenix rise to 10–5 and tighten grip on third.

Melbourne United have lost two straight for the second time this season, wilting to 111-86 Throwdown loss to cross town rival South East Melbourne Phoenix in Melbourne in Round 11 of NBL26 on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

The Phoenix shored up third place at 10-5 while United remained top at 13-4. It was the Phoenix's highest score and biggest win in Throwdown history.

How much the absence of head coach Dean Vickerman, who coached the Australian Boomers against New Zealand in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers, has impacted the ladder leaders is impossible to quantify but United have come out of the FIBA Break seemingly out of rhythm.

"I know that Melbourne is the benchmark for everybody this year, and we're happy we beat them for sure," Phoenix head coach Josh King said.

"I mean, we've lost to them twice this year, but it didn’t matter who we played today. We needed to show a reaction from the way that we played the other night, because that’s not our team. And I think the guys— I mean, Wes can answer that— but again, I think they knew that wasn’t our best and that’s not what we’re about.

"And so again, that’s what I'm most proud about today, besides just getting a win against Melbourne United."

Phoenix star Wes Iwundu added: "it was just a great atmosphere. You know, the energy in the building was off the charts.

"We're giving the crowd that type of energy and they returned the favour by giving us the energy as well.

"So, you know, that goes hand in hand. And I think throughout the whole building it was just contagious for everybody."

Iwundu said he was settling in after more than eight weeks in Australia.

"Was just telling somebody— I think this is a little over two months for me," he added.

"You know, sometimes every player takes different times to get adjusted. But I finally feel like I'm here, I got my feet down on the ground and, you know, after a win like this, it’s just something you want to keep building off of— personally and as a team."

Vickerman addressed the post FIBA Break blues.

"Some teams come out of the FIBA break rejuvenated and [with a] different game plan, and seeing Cairns play the other night, how good it’s been for them and… you know, right now on the two performances that we’ve had, I’d say it’s been the opposite for us right now," he admitted.

"Felt like just kind of lacking some synergy on the floor, lacking some discipline in some areas, and then I thought the physicality of both Perth and South East… we didn’t meet the physicality challenge as well.

"So, yeah, go back and look at that tonight and see what the biggest issues are and just try and be better."

United star Milton Doyle, who has been outstanding after joining Melbourne from the Tasmania JackJumpers before the start of the season, as disappointed.

"It hurts to lose any game, but especially the Throwdown— losing in this gym," he said.

"We had a lot of our fans here cheering for us, and it’s a big moment and a big momentum builder also when you win these types of games. So yeah, it hurts to lose those types of games."

Key Details

• Result: South East Melbourne Phoenix 111 def. Melbourne United 86
• When: Saturday, 7th December 2025
• Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Nathan Sobey (South East Melbourne Phoenix) starred with 25 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals in 30 minutes.
• Milton Doyle (Melbourne United) scored 22 points, and had three rebounds, five assists, and one steal in 28 minutes.

What Happened

The Phoenix established early control and never relinquished their grip on the contest, leading by 10 points after the opening quarter and extending their advantage to 17 points by half-time. Their 32-22 first quarter set the tone, with the home side maintaining consistent pressure throughout each period. Melbourne United struggled to mount any sustained comeback, managing only brief moments of resistance against the Phoenix's relentless offensive attack.

Nathan Sobey was simply outstanding, shooting 9-from-17 from the field including an exceptional 4-from-7 from downtown. His 52.9% field goal efficiency and perfect 3-from-3 from the charity stripe demonstrated his complete offensive arsenal. The captain's leadership on court was evident as he facilitated effectively with four assists while providing defensive intensity with two steals. Sobey's performance was complemented by strong contributions from Jordan Hunter, who delivered 13 points on stellar 5-from-7 shooting, and Wes Iwundu, who added 14 points with impressive 5-from-8 field goal accuracy.

For Melbourne United, Milton Doyle battled valiantly with 22 points and five assists, shooting a solid 50% from the field and perfect 7-from-7 from the foul line. However, his efforts were insufficient to counter the Phoenix's balanced offensive display. Tyson Walker contributed 12 points with efficient 5-from-6 shooting, while Finn Delany added 13 points and seven boards, but the United lacked the depth to match their opponents' scoring prowess across the rotation.

The Phoenix's superior shooting proved decisive, converting 41-from-76 field goals for an impressive 54% efficiency compared to United's 46% on 30-from-65 attempts. South East Melbourne's three-point shooting was particularly devastating, connecting on 16-from-31 attempts (51.6%) while United managed just 9-from-25 (36%). The Phoenix also dominated the defensive glass, limiting second-chance opportunities and forcing 19 turnovers compared to their own 13.

This commanding victory strengthens South East Melbourne Phoenix's position in the NBL standings while dealing a significant blow to Melbourne United's campaign. The 25-point margin reflects the gulf in class between the teams on this occasion, with the Phoenix demonstrating the kind of complete performance that makes them genuine championship contenders this season.