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The South East Melbourne Phoenix will host the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, October 5th, in a practice matchup ahead of the regular season at Rod Laver Arena.
The Pelicans come into the contest with confidence after a 107-97 win over Melbourne United, showcasing some of their top-end talent and team chemistry. The Phoenix, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after a 103-83 loss to Melbourne United, using this game as a chance to test rotations, experiment with lineups, and give younger players valuable minutes.
While the result doesn’t count, both sides will be eager to make a statement, sharpen their offence, and fine-tune their defence ahead of the regular season. Expect a fast-paced, entertaining clash where fans get a glimpse of potential breakout performers.
Here is a South East Melbourne Phoenix vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction for Sunday, October 5th 2025.
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SEM Phoenix vs New Orleans Pelicans
Venue – Rod Laver Arena
Tip Off – 1pm EST
2025 Season Record
| Team | W-L | Home | Away |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEM | 16-13 | 10-4 | 6-9 |
| NOP | 21-61 | 14-27 | 7-34 |
Season Scoring
| Team | PPG | Opp PPG | Game Total Ave |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEM | 96.1 | 91.6 | 187.7 |
| NOP | 109.8 | 119.3 | 229.1 |
Quick Game Facts
- New Orleans Pelicans ended last season on a sour note, dropping 7 straight games. Can they turn it around in this preseason matchup?
- South East Melbourne Phoenix struggled on the road last season, losing their final five away games.
Prediction
The New Orleans Pelicans look set to take this practice game against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, using their firepower and experience to dictate the pace. However, the Phoenix are known for their aggressive full-court press, and that defensive pressure could disrupt the Pelicans’ rhythm at times.
Expect the Pelicans to come out on top, but don’t be surprised if the Phoenix make it tough and force a few turnovers along the way. This game should be a solid preview of how both sides are shaping up ahead of the regular season.