NBL champ calls out Phoenix imports

They're enjoying one of their franchise's best starts to a Hungry Jack's season, sitting comfortably in third with an 8-3 record.

But one three-time champion isn't convinced in their championship pedigree, questioning if they have the firepower to go all the way.

During Thursday's episode of NBL Now, two time NBL MVP Chris Anstey called for more from the Phoenix's three imports, John Brown III, Wes Iwundu and Hunter Maldonado.

"They don't have that import that will wow you, or can put the team on his back and say, I'm gonna go and get you 30 tonight," Anstey said on NBL Now.

"Or I'm gonna create some of my own shots or create some of my own buckets when what we're doing breaks down.

"Between the three imports, they're averaging about 30 points a game and that's not enough."

Countering that argument, the Phoenix actually lead the league in points per game (97.4), but Anstey isn't sure that will continue across the season.

"[Nathan] Sobey and [Angus] Glover have been exceptional, as has Owen Foxwell, but I don't think if they're your top three scorers, that's going to bring you a championship."

"Iwundu for me is who needs to step up and take a much more aggressive role. He's the highest calibre. I think he's the highest skilled out of their three imports, but I'd love to see him taking 15, 18 shots a game instead of what he's taking at the moment.

"Their top end talent's not quite the same as Adelaide or Melbourne United, which in a series best of three or best of five will make it difficult."

The Phoenix will get a chance to challenge Anstey's theory on Thursday when they travel to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre to face the Bullets from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.