Round 8 of the NBL26 season delivered drama, surprises, and statement wins that could reshape the championship picture. From Melbourne United’s commanding Throwdown performance to the Perth Wildcats spoiling Bryce Cotton’s reunion game, the round provided fans with thrilling storylines. Analyst Pete Hooley breaks down the five biggest talking points from an eventful week in Australian basketball.
1. The Defending Champions Have Found Their Rhythm
After a sluggish start to the season, the Illawarra Hawks are looking like the powerhouse that lifted last year’s trophy. The key turning point? The return of Davo Hickey, whose chemistry with JaVale McGee has reignited the team’s momentum. Their inside-out game is proving to be one of the most lethal combinations in the league.
Coach Justin Tatum has found the perfect balance between defense and fast-paced offense, making the Hawks look unstoppable once again. With consistency and health on their side, the defending champions could very well climb back into the top-four conversation by the season’s end.
2. Melbourne United Make a Strong Statement in Throwdown 30
After suffering consecutive losses, Melbourne United desperately needed a bounce-back win — and they delivered in emphatic fashion. In Throwdown 30, United dismantled the South East Melbourne Phoenix, dominating both ends of the court.
Coach Dean Vickerman’s squad showed renewed focus, cohesion, and defensive sharpness. The final scoreline of an 11-point victory understated their dominance; Melbourne dictated the tempo from start to finish. Their response after a tough week sends a clear message — United remain serious title contenders.
3. Perth Wildcats Execute the Perfect Game Plan Against Bryce Cotton
In arguably the most anticipated matchup of the season, Bryce Cotton faced his former team, the Perth Wildcats, for the first time since his off-season move to the Adelaide 36ers. The storyline was filled with emotion, but Perth approached the game with professionalism and precision.
Cotton was spectacular individually, draining seven three-pointers and scoring 23 points, but Perth’s defensive structure — led by new import David Duke Jr. — kept him from attacking the rim or drawing fouls. The result was a 94-87 victory for the Wildcats, marking their seventh straight win over Adelaide. Perth’s tactical discipline and team-oriented approach proved the difference.
4. Casey Prather Emerging as an MVP Contender
While much of the spotlight has been on names like Cotton and McGee, Casey Prather of the Brisbane Bullets continues to make a strong case for MVP consideration. The veteran forward has been in sensational form, producing another standout performance with 28 points and eight rebounds against Tasmania.
Prather’s consistency and leadership have transformed the Bullets into a dark-horse playoff team. His ability to take over games in clutch moments, combined with elite two-way play, has made him one of the most impactful players in the league this season.
5. Sydney Kings Are Heating Up
The Sydney Kings have rediscovered their groove, stringing together three consecutive victories, thanks largely to Xavier Cooks’ resurgence. The former MVP has been dominant on both ends, showcasing his versatility and leadership during the team’s winning run.
Cooks recorded 21 points and 14 rebounds in their hard-fought win over the New Zealand Breakers, once again proving why he’s one of the NBL’s premier talents. The Kings’ blend of experience, pace, and chemistry is coming together at the right time, setting the stage for a blockbuster clash against the red-hot Hawks next weekend.
The Road Ahead
Round 8 was a turning point for several teams. The Hawks are back in contention, Melbourne United sent a warning to rivals, and Perth reminded everyone of their defensive brilliance. With the Bullets rising and the Kings regaining their championship form, the NBL26 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Every possession, every matchup, and every tactical adjustment now carries weight — because as Round 8 showed, momentum in the NBL can shift in an instant.
