NBL 2014/15 Round 10: 36ers end losing streak by toppling Melbourne at home
Adelaide started this one strong, bursting out to a 16-2 lead. Melbourne looked flustered and out of control against Adelaide's full court press right from the get go.
A big transition ally-oop by Lucas Walker fired Melbourne up. The away team went on a run of their own bringing it back to make it a one point game. For the home side it was Brock Motum who lead the way with nine in the opening period.
Adelaide tried their best to put it away in the 2nd, doing everything they could to capitalize on Melbourne's lack-luster play. Lucky for the United boys, they did just enough to hang around despite Adelaide doing a good job of forcing Melbourne into tough outside looks.
As the half time buzzer sounded Adelaide headed to the locker-room with a 10 point lead. For the home side it was Motum, whose first quarter was a huge reason for Adelaide's big start. On the other end Jordan McRae and Mark Worthington were doing just about everything to keep their team's hopes alive.
The third quarter saw Adelaide maintaining their lead before late in the period Melbourne woke up. A few solid defensive possessions by United turned things around, as the visitors took advantage and cut the lead back to two to finish the 3rd.
David Barlow opened the 4th with a corner three giving United the lead 66-65. It was looking like this was going to be a close one right to the end. However, it was Adelaide's unheralded big men BJ Anthony and Luke Schenscher who wouldn't let their team give up. A huge block by Mitch Creek lifted the home side, as the 36ers started playing with more energy and making life difficult for the away team.
For the home side its balanced attack was critical, as four of the five starters scored double figures, led by Adam Gibson’s 16 points. For Melbourne, McRae did everything he could to get the win however his 22 points wasn’t enough.
Behind the cheers of their home faithful, the boys in blue stormed away toward the end of the 4th, ending their losing streak taking home the victory 90-77.
For Melbourne they take on league-leading New Zealand on Sunday, in what should be a tough matchup for the team. The home side will face Perth on Sunday, hoping to continue their strong play off their win tonight.
Adelaide 90 (Gibson 16, Wilson 14, Anthony 12)
Melbourne 77 (McRae 22, Worthington 19, Barlow 12)
@ Adelaide Arena