How to watch & talking points: Melbourne v Illawarra

15 Feb 2026

melbourne united

illawarra hawks

Reigning champions Illawarra travel to John Cain Arena for a blockbuster clash with Melbourne United.

Melbourne United (5th) v Illawarra (8th)
Sunday, February 15, 2.30pm AEDT
John Cain Arena

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Talking points

United's simple equation
With just two games remaining on their schedule, Melbourne United now must win both of them to keep their top four chances alive.

The first of those is a Championship Series rematch on Sunday against the Hawks, before the final Showdown of NBL26 on Thursday.

The importance of finishing in the top four can not be understated, as it gives you a second chance in the Play-In games.

Expect a determined Melbourne side from the tip on Sunday.

Hawks' emotions
There is no love lost between Illawarra and Melbourne after last season’s Championship Series.

Now with United’s top four chances hanging by a thread, Justin Tatum’s side would love nothing more than to inflict more pain on their rivals, especially at John Cain Arena.

While their title defence is over, the Hawks will be out to play spoilers in a big way.

What they're saying

United assistant coach Rhys Carter, who will lead the sidelines on Sunday, on his side's resilience:
"We focused on the right things and showed toughness, showed grit and showed poise and composure in the fourth.

"We haven't closed out games how we'd like lately, but we toughed this one out and focused on the right things, and showed poise and composure so it was a big win for us to build on now.

“The energy was good in that second half. The vibes in the locker room after is we’ve got to keep this thing rolling and keep the good vibes in the group moving into the Playoffs.”

Hawks coach Justin Tatum on his fans' loyal support:
"It gives you chills. They're still on the championship high, which they should be, you know, and unfortunately we're on the hangover part of it.

"Just seeing 5,000, 6,000 people show up no matter what, down 20, up 20, you hear that chant and then they stay out and support the guys as they exit, speaks volumes of this team, this organisation, and the city.

"They deserve more and better, and we're going to give it to them.

"I'm just happy to see the crowd.

"When we walk the streets and walk home, people want to take pictures and say good luck coach, good job. That means a lot, especially the season."