A middle-of-the-table clash awaits NBL fans this Friday, as fifth-placed South East Melbourne take on sixth-placed Cairns.
Both teams have struggled of late - SEM lost both of their games in Round 11, while Cairns split theirs (although they were milliseconds from losing the second).
MORE: Menulog is serving up FREE* Delivery with Hungry Jack’s orders over $15 on Friday Nights
As we approach the end of the year, the heat is beginning to be turned up on both franchises, so who will come away with the win?
Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix prediction
- Prediction: Cairns Taipans to win
The Taipans were lucky to escape with a win against Brisbane, but their momentum should see them roll into the game against SEM with some confidence.
This will likely be lacking for the Phoenix, who will come into the game riding a two-game losing streak and will most likely be without MVP candidate Mitch Creek.
SEM got the better of Cairns when the sides first met in November, but this came in a game where Creek contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds, and they will struggle to make up for his creation.
After allowing the struggling Hawks to put up 100 against them, the Phoenix are not looking in good shape, and will most likely see their losing streak extend to three.
Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix key matchup
- Key matchup: Sam Mennenga vs Alan Williams
With Mitch Creek expected to be sidelined, Alan Williams will immediately become the focal point for South East Melbourne - and the spotlight will go to who's guarding him.
Williams has been solid since his return, averaging 16.9 points and 11.6 rebounds per game - a mark that leads the league by over three rebounds.
But Mennenga is no slouch, having back-to-back games scoring 13 and 18, and becoming a reliable option for Cairns in his rookie NBL season.
If the youngster can hold his own against the man they call 'Big Sauce', the Taipans should be able to hand the Phoenix another loss.
Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix player to watch
- Player to watch: Gary Browne
If Creek being out is going to benefit Williams, it might benefit Gary Browne even more so, with the import guard suddenly becoming the lynchpin for SEM's offence.
It's been a hotter start to the NBL season for Browne than his first and with his team's leading scorer set to miss time his role is only going to increase.
If Browne can adequately fill Creek's shoes, this should give the Pheonix the boost they need to break out of their funk.
When is Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix?
The Cairns Taipans host the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Friday, December 22, at the Cairns Convention Centre.
The game is set to tip off at 7:30 pm AEDT.
How to watch Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix
The Friday night clash between the Taipans and the Phoenix will be shown live on ESPN, via Foxtel.
MORE: Menulog is serving up FREE* Delivery with Hungry Jack’s orders over $15 on Friday Nights
The game can also be streamed on Kayo.
| TV Channel | ESPN |
| Streaming | Kayo |
*Available on Friday, 5-10pm until 18th February 2024. Participating stores only. Min spend $15. Service fees apply
Sporting News may earn an affiliate commission through our links. The Sporting News' affiliates have no influence over the editorial content included in this article.