Fixture: Your Team's Biggest Games

Monday, July 25, 2022

Blockbuster fixtures, renewed rivalries and stars in new team colours make the 2022/2023 Hungry Jack’s NBL Season one of the most anticipated in years.

Whichever team you support, these are the games you don’t want to miss.

Adelaide 36ers

The 36ers have been one of the most active teams in Free Agency, and star recruits Antonius Cleveland and Robert Franks are sure to have Adelaide Entertainment Centre rocking on October 13.

All eyes will be on the duo as Adelaide takes on the Tasmania JackJumpers in Round 3.

36ers fans will also be out in force against the Phoenix, with a standalone fixture on Christmas Eve sure to capture plenty of attention.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">?TIP OFF TIME?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> is HERE!<br><br>Full schedule: <a href="https://t.co/JzWHkq7L7N">https://t.co/JzWHkq7L7N</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreSixers?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreSixers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SwoopTheHoop?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SwoopTheHoop</a> <a href="https://t.co/fTjHbCMy2e">pic.twitter.com/fTjHbCMy2e</a></p>— Adelaide 36ers (@Adelaide36ers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adelaide36ers/status/1551311261207609349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Brisbane Bullets

It will be a new-look roster for the Bullets, with the departure of several experienced players, creating opportunity for some talented youngsters.

Brisbane will be in the blockbuster timeslot on Australia Day, with a 6.30pm tip-off against the New Zealand Breakers in Round 17 at Nissan Arena.

The Queensland rivalry heats up again in Round 7, as the Bullets take on Cairns at home on a Saturday night, November 19, before the teams return to Nissan Arena on January 5.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBLxNBA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBLxNBA</a> Summer League ?<a href="https://twitter.com/jogracehealy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jogracehealy</a> caught up with <a href="https://twitter.com/BrisbaneBullets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrisbaneBullets</a> GM of Basketball, Sam Mackinnon to talk all things <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> from the import search to Next Stars ? <a href="https://t.co/tWVYko1d6n">pic.twitter.com/tWVYko1d6n</a></p>— The NBL (@NBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL/status/1547454497680527360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cairns Taipans

The Taipans are back in their flagship New Year’s Eve slot, taking on the Adelaide 36ers at Cairns Convention Centre on December 31.

Adam Forde has retained emerging stars Bul Kuol and Keanu Pinder, while import Tahjere McCall has committed for a further two years, meaning all eyes will on the Taipans’ progression.

Cairns will call on their passionate home fans for a Wednesday night clash against fellow Queenslanders, Brisbane, on December 14.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ahead of the full 2022-23 schedule release on Monday, a New Year's Eve home game in Cairns has been confirmed ??<a href="https://t.co/MY3EaDsRR7">https://t.co/MY3EaDsRR7</a></p>— Cairns Taipans (@CairnsTaipans) <a href="https://twitter.com/CairnsTaipans/status/1550340383455866881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Illawarra Hawks

Tempers flared in the Freeway Series last year, with several altercations and verbal stoushes during the regular season, and a Finals Series claimed by the Kings.

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk has made the move from Sydney to Illawarra, while former Defensive Player of the Year Justin Simon has returned to the league, but not to the club he made his mark last time around.

His recent comments wouldn’t have gone unnoticed by Hawks’ players and fans alike.

“That game (against the Hawks) is going to be great and to me I now like to think that I’m on the better side of NSW.”

Simon said he’ll feel like a “villain” returning to WIN Entertainment Centre, and he won’t have to wait long, with a blockbuster local derby on opening night, October 1.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBLxNBA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBLxNBA</a> Summer League ?<a href="https://twitter.com/illawarrahawks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@illawarrahawks</a> GM of Basketball, Mat Campbell is on the ground in Vegas, and on the lookout for an import guard to pair with Tyler Harvey.<br><br>He also gave <a href="https://twitter.com/Liam_Santa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Liam_Santa</a> an update on the Duop Reath <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> contract situation ? <a href="https://t.co/d5Zb2x6yv7">pic.twitter.com/d5Zb2x6yv7</a></p>— The NBL (@NBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL/status/1545280326452543488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Melbourne United

It’s all about the fans at John Cain Arena, as United and Cairns make a long-awaited return to a unique sporting experience.

The lid is off in Melbourne, with the marquee Open-Air Game back for the first time since 2019.

Traditionally played on Boxing Day, this year’s blockbuster is in the Friday night timeslot, making it the perfect end-of-week entertainment.

Of course, it’s hard to go past the Throwdown, with United taking on the Phoenix on November 6 as the home team.

Melbourne certainly isn’t short of blockbuster fixtures, also travelling to Sydney for the first ever Christmas Day game.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">? Coming soon to MU!<br><br>ICYMI - Earlier today we announced the signing of Isaac Humphries. Here’s a little look at what the big man can do! <a href="https://t.co/zSgJzXmwxz">pic.twitter.com/zSgJzXmwxz</a></p>— Melbourne United (@MelbUnited) <a href="https://twitter.com/MelbUnited/status/1550395212857769985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

New Zealand Breakers

The Breakers haven’t played in New Zealand since May 5, 2021, so their return to home territory will be met with bated breath.

Spark Arena is the place to be on October 7, as new coach Mody Maor and a very-different looking roster look to bounce back from a hugely challenging two years.

The Breakers have made a raft of changes, with Izayah Le’Afa, Cam Gliddon and Tom Vodanovich all coming from other teams, and Next Star Rayan Rupert highly touted for his elite defence.

New Zealand looms as an exciting watch.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Remember the name, and get familiar with his game.<br><br>Introducing Rayan Rupert, the NBL's newest Next Star ?<a href="https://twitter.com/NZBreakers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZBreakers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rayanrupert12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rayanrupert12</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> <a href="https://t.co/QRZCViWM49">pic.twitter.com/QRZCViWM49</a></p>— The NBL (@NBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL/status/1535118382751956992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Perth Wildcats

Expectations will be high in Perth after a 35-year finals run came to an end.

There’s no doubting the Red Army will pack into RAC Arena in the opening round as new coach John Rillie takes the reins. The brilliant Bryce Cotton is back, while Luke Travers has pledged to take another big step in his development after an impressive NBA Summer League.

The Wildcats have three home fixtures in the first three rounds, and if there’s one way to respond to the critics, it’s in front of their loyal fans.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fresh off his impressive NBA Summer League with the <a href="https://twitter.com/cavs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cavs</a>, Luke Travers is back out West and ready to take his game, and the <a href="https://twitter.com/PerthWildcats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PerthWildcats</a> to another level in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBLxNBA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBLxNBA</a> <a href="https://t.co/HauJ6M6YBK">https://t.co/HauJ6M6YBK</a></p>— The NBL (@NBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL/status/1550759846261059584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

South East Melbourne Phoenix

Saturday, October 1, 6pm. Mark it in your calendar, NBL fans.

This is where it all begins, as the Phoenix and JackJumpers open the 2022/2023 season.

After missing the finals last year, can Simon Mitchell and his men make an immediate impact?

And who could forget Mitch Creek’s massive dunk over Matthew Dellavedova in last year’s Throwdown – the Phoenix and United get reacquainted with three battles in the space of a month in Rounds 6, 7 and 9.

Phoenix fans will be hanging out for the home legs on November 19 and December 3 at John Cain Arena.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">??????? ????? ??! ?<br><br>Special delivery for ?S?i?m?o?n? ??? ???????? <br><br>? Sync our full Hungry Jacks NBL23 to your calendar here: <a href="https://t.co/jc9ZWhWXnc">https://t.co/jc9ZWhWXnc</a> <a href="https://t.co/fCjmbqAUoj">pic.twitter.com/fCjmbqAUoj</a></p>— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEMelbPhoenix/status/1551311742441226241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sydney Kings

It’s history in the making as the Kings host Melbourne United on Christmas Day.

Qudos Bank Arena will light up on December 25 for the first sporting event of its kind in Australia.

“Sports fans across Australia and New Zealand have been asking for live sport on Christmas and we are excited to bring them world-class basketball and entertainment on what is a very special day for so many,” NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said.

After welcoming a record finals crowd in its championship-winning season, tickets for the Kings’ home games will be in hot demand.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Kings and Hawks rivalry *INTENSIFIES* ?<br><br>New Kings import Justin Simon can't wait to play his old squad from the 'Gong in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBL23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBL23</a> <br><br>More at <a href="https://t.co/wqHahGNkFB">https://t.co/wqHahGNkFB</a><br><br>via <a href="https://twitter.com/mattlogue7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mattlogue7</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/dailytelegraph?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dailytelegraph</a> <a href="https://t.co/TyJfjws5kU">pic.twitter.com/TyJfjws5kU</a></p>— The NBL (@NBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL/status/1549220695984312321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tasmania JackJumpers

The JackJumpers’ inaugural campaign brought about one of the most memorable sporting stories of all-time, and Scott Roth and his team will be desperate to go one better in season two.

Tickets for Tasmania’s first home fixture on October 3 against Cairns are sure to be at a premium, after MyState Bank Arena was sold out for every game last year.

New recruits Milton Doyle and Rashard Kelly, and a fit Will Magnay will be keen to make an impact, with Josh Adams not returning for a second season.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">?WATCH: The Tasmanian <a href="https://twitter.com/JackJumpers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackJumpers</a> have signed 6"7 American Rashard Kelly (<a href="https://twitter.com/WizKellyy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WizKellyy</a>) as their second import for the upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/NBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBL</a> season following the departures of Mikyle McIntosh and Josh Adams.<br><br>The versatile power forward is currently playing in France. <a href="https://t.co/lTJcaR6JDj">pic.twitter.com/lTJcaR6JDj</a></p>— Brent Costelloe (@brentcostelloe) <a href="https://twitter.com/brentcostelloe/status/1539171269173579776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>