South East Melbourne Phoenix put on an offensive clinic against Adelaide 36ers on October 24, 2026, securing a 108-94 National Basketball League victory behind a balanced attack and a decisive second-quarter surge. The Phoenix reached triple figures with room to spare, punishing Adelaide’s defensive rotations and controlling the tempo for long stretches.

Match overview

The Phoenix led 56-46 at halftime after a strong opening half, then kept the 36ers at arm’s length through the third quarter. Adelaide remained competitive and found scoring from multiple positions, but every time they threatened to cut into the lead, South East Melbourne answered with a timely three-pointer or a strong finish at the rim.

• First quarter: Phoenix 27-24 Adelaide
• Second quarter: Phoenix 29-22 Adelaide
• Third quarter: Phoenix 25-23 Adelaide
• Fourth quarter: Phoenix 27-25 Adelaide
• Final score: South East Melbourne Phoenix 108-94 Adelaide 36ers

How the game unfolded

The opening quarter was fast and free-flowing, with both teams trading baskets and little separating them. The Phoenix’s 27-24 lead after ten minutes became a more substantial advantage in the second period, when their bench helped spark a run. Ball movement, offensive rebounding, and transition scoring allowed South East Melbourne to stretch the floor and force Adelaide into scramble situations.

Adelaide’s best response came in the third quarter, when their guards attacked the paint and the 36ers’ big men worked the offensive glass. But the Phoenix’s shot-making held firm. A late flurry in the fourth quarter ensured the home side finished comfortably, with the final margin reflecting their superior efficiency across the 40 minutes.

Tactical story

The Phoenix won this game with pace and spacing. They pushed the ball after makes and misses, created early offense, and forced Adelaide’s defense to make decisions before it was set. When the 36ers switched, South East Melbourne attacked the mismatch; when Adelaide went under screens, the Phoenix punished them from deep. Defensively, the home side did enough to contain Adelaide’s primary creators, even if the 36ers’ scoring total remained respectable.

Standout performers

Phoenix forward Mitch Creek set the tone with 24 points and eight rebounds, repeatedly scoring in crucial moments. Adelaide’s Isaac Humphries was strong inside with 22 points and nine rebounds, while the 36ers’ backcourt combined for a series of important baskets. South East Melbourne’s depth proved decisive, with contributions across the rotation keeping the offense flowing even when Adelaide increased its pressure.

Season impact

For South East Melbourne Phoenix, a 108-point performance is a clear statement of what their offense can become when the ball moves and the shot selection stays disciplined. The win strengthens their position in the National Basketball League and gives them momentum heading into the next stage of the schedule. Adelaide 36ers leave with areas to review, particularly their transition defense and the ease with which the Phoenix generated clean looks in the second quarter.