As Round 10 of the NBL26 season unfolds, teams are nearing the halfway mark, and the championship race is heating up. However, several pressing questions remain unanswered, casting a spotlight on the league’s dynamics. Are the Tasmania JackJumpers struggling to fit into Scott Roth’s system? Can the Adelaide 36ers secure a top-two finish? Are the Perth Wildcats genuine Grand Final contenders, and is Adam Forde’s tenure in Cairns nearing its conclusion? These questions form the crux of the NBL Mid-Season Bold Calls.
The Adelaide 36ers: A Top-Two Contender
The Adelaide 36ers have emerged as formidable contenders, currently holding the second position on the NBL ladder with a 9-3 record. Their recent victories, including an overtime win against the Cairns Taipans and a decisive 11-point triumph over the Tasmania JackJumpers, underscore their potential. The addition of Troy Brown Jr., a versatile defender and scorer, has bolstered their lineup, providing crucial support to Bryce Cotton.
Adelaide’s roster is rich with talent, featuring Dejan Vasiljevic, Isaac Humphries, and Zylan Cheatham, who are gradually finding synergy. With three imports and Bryce Cotton as a naturalised Australian, the 36ers boast one of the most potent offensive units in NBL history. As Brown Jr. integrates further, their ceiling continues to rise. Finals seem inevitable, but the postseason will test coach Mike Wells’ ability to balance playing through Cotton and around him.
Brisbane Bullets: Poised for a Late-Season Surge
The Brisbane Bullets have displayed flashes of brilliance and resilience, yet their 5-9 record after 14 games indicates room for improvement. The arrival of Terry Taylor and Javon Freeman-Liberty injects much-needed scoring and energy into the team. With Tyrell Harrison anchoring the defense and a reliable supporting cast, the Bullets have a solid foundation but need consistency.
Dakota Mathias, the third import, has impressed with averages of 11.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and a 36% shooting rate from deep. As Taylor and Freeman-Liberty integrate, Mathias can focus on efficient floor spacing. Coach Stu Lash now faces the challenge of igniting a late-season run, as the pressure mounts to deliver results.
Adam Forde’s Tenure in Cairns Under Scrutiny
The Cairns Taipans find themselves struggling, anchored at the bottom of the ladder with a 3-11 record. Despite injuries, the team’s performance has not met expectations, and the responsibility increasingly falls on head coach Adam Forde. This season was anticipated to be different, with a mix of returning and new talent sparking optimism.
However, Forde’s tenure, now in its fourth season, has seen mixed results. His best campaign was a third-place finish in 2022-23, but the current season’s struggles highlight the need for change. While Forde has been praised for player development, the lack of significant improvement suggests this may be his final year with the Taipans unless a dramatic turnaround occurs.
Melbourne United’s Dominant Import Trio
Melbourne United has set the benchmark for the NBL26 season, leading the ladder with an 11-2 record. Their strategic roster construction, featuring three imports and a mix of rookies and veterans, has paid dividends. Tyson Walker, Jesse Edwards, and Milton Doyle have excelled, each playing a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Doyle averages 15.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.2 rebounds, serving as the team’s closer. Walker contributes 14.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, showcasing his two-way value. Edwards, with 13.8 points and 7.9 rebounds, provides interior strength. This trio’s balance of skills makes them the league’s best, positioning Melbourne United as strong contenders for the championship.
Perth Wildcats: Eyeing the Grand Final
The Perth Wildcats, currently at 7-5, are building momentum with a roster that suggests a high ceiling. The addition of David Duke Jr. has transformed their lineup, complementing players like Kristian Doolittle and Dylan Windler. Their strong 5-2 road record indicates a developing identity and resilience.
With a focus on rediscovering their defensive prowess, the Wildcats aim to establish The Jungle as a fortress. If they continue to mesh and solidify their defensive identity, a Grand Final appearance is within reach, making them a team to watch in the latter half of the season.
As the NBL26 season progresses, these bold calls highlight the evolving narratives and challenges facing teams and coaches. The coming rounds will be crucial in determining who rises to the occasion and who falls short of expectations.
