The 2026/27 NBL season gets underway on Saturday, September 19, with a blockbuster Round 1 clash between Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers at John Cain Arena.
Melbourne United enter the new season with plenty of excitement surrounding the club. They have a new, young head coach in Jacob Chance, while their revamped roster features some serious NBA experience. Former NBA guard Cole Anthony arrives in Melbourne after 355 NBA games, while Australian veteran Joe Ingles returns to the NBL following a 12-year NBA career. Luke Travers also joins the United lineup after playing in the NBA last season.
United have already shown some promising signs during the preseason, winning the NBL Blitz, with Travers particularly impressive after being named tournament MVP.
The Adelaide 36ers provide a very different challenge. They have brought in five-time NBL Championship-winning coach Trevor Gleeson, who returns to the NBL after several years coaching overseas. Gleeson knows what it takes to build a championship team and will be looking to take Adelaide one step further after the 36ers finished runners-up last season.
And then there is Bryce Cotton.
The six-time NBL MVP remains the headline act for Adelaide and enters another season as one of the most dominant players the league has ever produced. Cotton and Gleeson already have a successful history together, having combined for three championships during their time with the Perth Wildcats.
So, Round 1 gives us an intriguing matchup: a new-look Melbourne United team packed with NBA experience against an Adelaide 36ers side combining proven NBL championship coaching experience with arguably the best player in the league.
It should be a fascinating way to open the NBL season.
Melbourne United vs Adelaide 36ers Prediction for Saturday, September 19th 2026.
Melbourne United vs Adelaide 36ers
Venue – John Cain Arena
Tip Off – 7.30pm EST
Pre-Season Blitz Record
| Team | W-L | Home | Away |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | 2-0 | ||
| Adelaide | 1-1 |
Pre-Season Blitz Scoring
| Team | PPG | Opp PPG | Game Total Ave |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | 100 | 90 | 190 |
| Adelaide | 105.5 | 93 | 198.5 |
Quick Game Facts
- Cole Anthony will be suiting up for this clash
- Clashes at John Cain Arena average 185 Total Match Points
Prediction
Be sure to check back closer to game day for a prediction of this match.