NBL 2014/15 Round 20 Preview: In form Crocs, Hawks go head-to-head
Townsville Crocodiles vs. Wollongong Hawks
Friday, 20th February, 2015 – 7.30pm (local time)
Townsville RSL Stadium
Tickets: Click here
The Townsville Crocs and Wollongong Hawks will go head-to-head in a clash that means nothing in terms of the NBL playoffs but everything to two clubs that have endured a tough season 2014/15.
Incidentally, both sides are in form and have each recorded two wins against Melbourne – who were formerly in the hunt for the playoffs – in the past fortnight.
The Crocs also enjoyed a very good win against the Breakers at home last week and will be looking to build on that with another big performance in front of their loyal home fans.
Key Player
Brian Conklin
Is there any other player in the league who is as damaging and hard-working on the inside as Conklin?
He is the star of this talented Crocs side and has been putting in some huge performances over the second half of the season, and looms again as the key to the Crocs nabbing another late win.
While there is plenty of talent surrounding him, namely Mickell Gladness and Todd Blanchfield, there is little doubt that Conklin’s ability to absolutely destroy teams on the glass and around the rim is what makes him priority number one for Wollongong.
What To Watch For
Players looking to secure their spot next season
While both sides are well and truly out of the finals race, a number of players are playing for contracts right now.
Hawks import Jahii Carson has had an up-and-down season but will be wanting to finish strong if he wants another go at the NBL next season, while a number of Crocs’ youngsters will be hoping to hold their place on the roster as well.
Perhaps that is partly the reason why both sides have found themselves in a rich vein of winning form of late, but either way this match will be fantastic viewing as two in-form sides who have been able to score the basketball with consistency in recent weeks go toe-to-toe.
Final Word
Townsville’s crushing 40-point thrashing of Melbourne last weekend was easily their most comprehensive win of the season, while their win over New Zealand the week before was equally as impressive.
Wollongong have also enjoyed a purple patch in the last month, pushing the Breakers all the way, twice, before recording wins over Melbourne and Sydney.
With this clash being held in Townsville, the Crocs hold the advantage and should get another win, but this clash will be tight all the way through.
Townsville by 3