'Lose and they're done': Anstey's big Hawks call

With just 12 games remaining on their Hungry Jack's NBL26 schedule, now is the time for reigning champion Illawarra to make their Finals push.

Having won their past two games, against Tasmania and Cairns, it appears it's all starting to come together for the Hawks.

But awaiting them on Thursday night is one of the toughest propositions in the NBL right now, South East Melbourne, who they'll battle at the State Basketball Centre.

Two-time NBL MVP Chris Anstey believes Thursday's Round 16 could be make or break for the Hawks' chances of qualifying for the post-season.

"[South East Melbourne] is going to be really big challenge for Illawarra," Anstey said on Thursday's episode of NBL Now.

"They've already lost 13 games and they're chasing Tasmania who have lost 13 games as well [but have three extra wins].

"Outside of that, Perth have lost 10, and I don't see Illawarra even thinking about getting anywhere higher than six. It's them and Tasmania [going for that spot].

"Quite literally, I think if they lose this game, they're done. It's one step too many if they can't get this one.

"They need to win three, four, five in a row just to be on even terms with Tasmania and hope Tasmania lose [their matches]. Those losses are the ones I'm looking at, not the wins."

To achieve that, the three time champion believes the Hawks must lean heavily into their two big lineup of JaVale McGee and Sam Froling.

"I like Illawarra's matchup when they [McGee and Froling] are both on the floor," Anstey said.

"Out of all the bigs in the NBL, Illawarra might have two of the best of that, so it's up to them to exploit teams with them.

"If Illawarra lean into that, I'm interested how the Phoenix respond because John Brown III can guard anyone on the court. Do they play small and force Froling to chase around shooters like Angus Glover?

"[It's going to be intriguing] to see the matchups both teams play with tonight and the styles they use."

Thursday night's fixture tips off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.