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The NBL25 Grand Final series is heating up, and Melbourne United will enter Game 2 brimming with confidence after a 96-88 road victory over the Illawarra Hawks in Game 1. With the win, Melbourne takes a crucial 1-0 series lead, putting the pressure squarely on Illawarra to respond.
United’s defensive masterclass was the key to their success, suffocating the Hawks’ high-powered backcourt and limiting their star guards to just 15 points combined. Their ability to disrupt Illawarra’s offensive flow forced the Hawks into difficult shots and uncharacteristic mistakes. Meanwhile, Marcus Lee was the X-factor, delivering a dominant 14-point, 15-rebound performance. His energy on the boards and presence in the paint proved vital, raising questions about why he doesn’t see more minutes in United’s rotation.
For the Hawks, adjustments are a must. They were outworked on the glass, struggled to find rhythm offensively, and failed to impose their usual tempo. Coach Justin Tatum will need to find a way to get his stars more involved, particularly against United’s relentless defence. Controlling the rebounding battle and finding easier scoring opportunities will be key if Illawarra wants to even the series.
With their home-court advantage now gone, can the Hawks regroup and level the series? Or will Melbourne United ride their momentum and take a commanding 2-0 lead on their quest for the NBL25 championship?
Here is a Melbourne United vs Illawarra Hawks Prediction for Game 2 of the NBL25 Grand Final Series.
Be sure to check back before each NBL25 Match for NBL Previews, NBL Head to Head Predictions, NBL Tips, NBL Picks and NBL Predictions for matches of NBL Season 25.
Melbourne United vs Illawarra Hawks
Venue – John Cain Arena
Tip Off – 7.30pm EST
Season Record
| Team | W-L | Home | Away |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | 19-10 | 9-6 | 10-4 |
| Illawarra | 20-9 | 10-4 | 10-5 |
Season Scoring
| Team | PPG | Opp PPG | Game Total Ave |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | 95.6 | 91.4 | 187 |
| Illawarra | 101.4 | 91.2 | 192.6 |
Quick Game Facts
- Illawarra’s road struggles in finals! The Hawks have dropped their last six away finals games—can they turn it around in Game 2?
- Home court dominance! Melbourne United has won five of its last six home games against Illawarra. The fortress at John Cain Arena is a tough place to win!
- Chris Goulding is on fire! The sharpshooter has drained an insane 19 threes in just two finals games at John Cain Arena this season. Can he keep it going?
Prediction
Melbourne United holds the lead, and their defense has been locked in. While it’s unlikely the Hawks will have back-to-back poor shooting nights, United may have found their X-Factor—starting big man Marcus Lee to dominate the boards. Melbourne will be tough to beat at home, but expect the Hawks to come out swinging in what could turn into a high-scoring shootout!