A Throwdown with everything to play for

Each of the previous 31 Throwdowns between Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix have been critical clash for a number reasons.

From bragging rights to ladder position and fierce Finals showdowns, they’ve all had a slice of extra spice about them.

And Thursday’s 32nd edition of the Melbourne derby is no different, with huge post-season ramifications relying on the Round 22 fixture.

The Phoenix need to win to keep their top-two chances alive, while United must claim victory if they want to finish in fourth spot. Otherwise, they will end the season in fifth spot and host Tasmania in the do-or-die Play-In Qualifier.

“I expect this game [Thursday night] to be a line in the sand game for United,” two-time NBL MVP Chris Anstey said on Thursday’s episode of NBL Now.

“They've got one game before a break, and they've got an opportunity to prove that they're ready to go for the playoffs and take a step in the right direction.

“You look at their record over the year, and they've beaten every single team in the top six. They're capable of doing it.

“It's just they haven't in the last 15 games, for whatever reason.

“[As such], I just have a feeling they'll bounce back, leading into the playoffs, [thanks to their] veteran leadership.

“The Phoenix are very tough, and United is going to need to do it against a team that got them last time.”

With fireworks expected on Thursday, it represents a Finals-like atmosphere before the Finals officially tip off.

When they do, following the FIBA Window, Anstey believes all six of the teams have a legit chance of being crowned as the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 champions.

“All six teams remaining should back themselves to beat anyone else,” Anstey said.

“They [United] have proven that they can [beat anyone] and Tasmania are no different. They've been hit with injuries more than the other five and with Scott Roth at the helm, they will embrace that underdog tag and [give it their all], regardless of who steps on the court.”

Thursday’s Throwdown tips off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.