Pelicans Dominate Phoenix in Historic NBLxNBA Clash in Melbourne
The New Orleans Pelicans concluded their Australian tour with a dominant 127-92 victory over the South East Melbourne Phoenix at Rod Laver Arena. Despite limited minutes from star Zion Williamson, the Pelicans' impressive three-point shooting and stifling defense proved too much for the Phoenix.
A Historic NBLxNBA First
This game marked the 27th clash between NBL and NBA teams, but the first ever to be held on Australian soil. While the Adelaide 36ers' 2022 win over the Phoenix Suns remains the lone NBL victory in the series, this game showcased the growing popularity of basketball in Australia.
Pelicans' First-Half Barrage Seals the Deal
Following their hard-fought win against Melbourne United, the Pelicans came out strong, shooting almost 45% from beyond the arc in the first half. Saddiq Bey, returning from a serious knee injury, sparked a three-point clinic, supported by Jordan Poole and Jeremiah Fears. The Pelicans finished the first quarter with a commanding 35-21 lead.
Zion Williamson's Impact in Limited Minutes
Zion Williamson, playing only 15 minutes, still made a significant impact. Despite highlights including blocks on dunk attempts by Gorjok Gak and Malique Lewis, he recorded eight points, nine rebounds, three assists, three steals, and two blocks. South East Melbourne, led by Nathan Sobey, attempted to match the Pelicans' intensity early on.
Second-Half Domination and Key Performances
Despite Williamson's absence in the second half, the Pelicans continued their dominance. Their suffocating defense limited the Phoenix to just 37 points, while they added 53 of their own. Bey led the way with 21 points, while Poole (15 points), Jordan Hawkins (14 points), Fears (12 points), and Yves Missi (10 points, six rebounds) also delivered strong performances.
Phoenix's Efforts in Defeat
Despite the loss, Jordan Hunter led the Phoenix with 17 points, while Sobey and Akech Allir each contributed 16 points. Daniel Foster and Allir provided sparks off the bench, but the Pelicans' offensive firepower proved too much to overcome.
