As the National Basketball League (NBL) reaches Round 10, teams are nearing the halfway point of their NBL26 schedule. The championship race is heating up, yet significant questions remain unanswered. The Tasmania JackJumpers’ compatibility with Scott Roth’s system, the Adelaide 36ers’ potential as a top-two team, and the Perth Wildcats’ Grand Final aspirations are all under scrutiny. Meanwhile, the coaching tenures of Adam Forde in Cairns and Petteri Koponen with the New Zealand Breakers are in question.
The Adelaide 36ers: A Top-Two Lock?
The Adelaide 36ers currently hold the second spot on the NBL ladder with a 9–3 record, following an overtime victory against the Cairns Taipans and an 11-point win over the Tasmania JackJumpers. The addition of new import Troy Brown Jr. has bolstered their roster, providing a versatile defensive presence and additional scoring support for Bryce Cotton.
Despite their current success, the 36ers have room to improve. Dejan Vasiljevic’s move to the bench has alleviated pressure on Cotton, while Isaac Humphries and Zylan Cheatham are developing their inside chemistry. With three imports and Cotton as a naturalized Australian, Adelaide boasts one of the most talented offensive lineups in NBL history.
“At this point, calling Adelaide a top-two lock isn’t an overreaction. Their balance of offence and defence has been strong from the outset, and that ceiling only rises as Brown Jr. integrates himself into the rotation.”
Finals appear to be a certainty for Adelaide, but the postseason will test coach Mike Wells’ ability to balance playing through Cotton and around him. For now, the 36ers seem poised to secure a top-two finish.
Brisbane Bullets: A Late-Season Surge?
The Brisbane Bullets have shown promise this season, displaying both their strengths and weaknesses. With a 5-9 record after 14 games, they have significant ground to cover. However, the arrival of reinforcements like Terry Taylor and Javon Freeman-Liberty offers hope. These players bring scoring, toughness, and energy to the team.
Third import Dakota Mathias has impressed, averaging 11.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and shooting 36% from deep. As Taylor and Freeman-Liberty integrate, Mathias’ role as a floor-spacer will become more efficient. The onus now falls on head coach Stu Lash to capitalize on these additions and ignite a late-season run.
“With Freeman-Liberty healthy and Taylor joining the rotation, the Bullets finally have the offensive firepower to take pressure off Tyrell Harrison, who has been ‘Mr Fix-It’ all season.”
If Brisbane is to make a push for the playoffs, this is their moment to shine.
Coaching Challenges: Adam Forde and Petteri Koponen
Adam Forde’s Tenure in Cairns
The Cairns Taipans are struggling, sitting at the bottom of the ladder with a 3-11 record. Injuries have been a factor, but the team’s performance has not met expectations. Adam Forde, now in his fourth season, faces mounting pressure as the Taipans’ head coach.
Despite a promising roster, Cairns has failed to deliver results. Forde has been praised for his developmental coaching, but the team’s lack of success raises questions about his future with the club.
“With the budget excuses muted and the talent available, the harsh truth is this: if the Taipans can’t spark a dramatic turnaround late in the season, this will almost certainly be Adam Forde’s final year at the helm in Cairns.”
Petteri Koponen’s Uncertain Future
The New Zealand Breakers have had a disappointing start, sitting second-last at 4-10. Petteri Koponen’s frustration has been evident, and with Judd Flavell waiting in the wings, a coaching change seems imminent.
The Breakers’ upcoming games against Cairns offer a chance for redemption, but tougher matches lie ahead. Without a significant turnaround, Koponen may not finish the season as head coach.
“With the Breakers drifting away from their early-season hopes and failing to establish a clear on-court identity, the writing is becoming hard to ignore.”
Contenders and Surprises
Perth Wildcats: Grand Final Aspirations
The Perth Wildcats have shown potential, with a 7-5 record and a roster that is beginning to gel. The addition of David Duke Jr. has been transformative, and the team is building momentum.
With a strong road record and a growing defensive identity, Perth is positioning itself as a legitimate contender. If they peak at the right time, a Grand Final appearance is within reach.
Melbourne United: The Best Import Trio
Melbourne United leads the NBL26 season, thanks in part to their outstanding import trio: Tyson Walker, Jesse Edwards, and Milton Doyle. Their balanced skill sets and team-first mentality have set them apart.
If United can maintain their form, they are strong contenders for the championship, seeking to overcome back-to-back Grand Final losses.
As the NBL season progresses, the landscape continues to evolve. With teams vying for playoff positions and coaches battling for their jobs, the second half of the season promises to be as thrilling as the first.
