Phoenix owner calls out 36ers star

The Hungry Jack's NBL26 Playoffs officially tipped off on Tuesday night with a highly entertaining game between Adelaide and South East Melbourne.

While the 36ers had the last laugh, winning by seven points, one first half incident caught the eye of a Phoenix owner.

With just over one minute to play in the first quarter, Adelaide’s Nick Rakocevic committed a hard foul on South East Melbourne’s Akech Allir.

After being reviewed by the officials, the foul was upgraded from a personal foul to an unsportsmanlike foul.

But the discussion didn't stop there for South East Melbourne co-owner Romie Chaudari, who called out the 36ers star via X.

“This is the same guy who pretty much attacked Hunter Moldanado in the game against Brisbane not too long ago,” Chaudari said.

“Physicality is great, we play physical, too, but playing physical and playing dirty are two different things.”

Chaudhari has been vocal across social media this season, passionately defending Phoenix star Owen Foxwell after a run-in with veteran coach Brian Goorjian and fined for inappropriate comments about refereeing and opposition players via X in October.

Game 2 of the intense Playoff Series between South East Melbourne and Adelaide tips off at 5.30pm AEDT on Saturday, live on ESPN.