Introduction
The 2025 NBL season has culminated in an explosive Championship Series between the Illawarra Hawks and Melbourne United. After an action-packed season and intense playoff battles, these two teams are set to clash for the NBL title in a best-of-five series.
The Road to the Championship Series
Illawarra Hawks: A Historic Grand Final Push
The Illawarra Hawks are heading to their first grand final in eight years after a record-breaking season under coach Justin Tatum. Finishing atop the ladder with a 20-9 record, the Hawks secured the top seed. Their semi-final victory over the South East Melbourne Phoenix, a dominant 126-96 win, demonstrated their hunger for a second championship. Star player Trey Kell III has been instrumental, scoring 30 points in the semi-final. Tatum was also named NBL Coach of the Year. The Hawks’ offense has been potent, averaging over 101 points per game.
Melbourne United: Thrilling Playoff Victory
Melbourne United secured their spot in the Championship Series with a dramatic 113-112 win over the Perth Wildcats. Ian Clark (38 points) and Chris Goulding (30 points) led United to victory in a high-scoring thriller that went down to the wire. United finished the regular season in second place with a 19-10 record.
Championship Series Schedule
The battle for the 2025 NBL championship is a best-of-five series:
- Game 1: Saturday, March 8, Illawarra vs. Melbourne, WIN Entertainment Centre, 8:00 pm AEDT
- Game 2: Wednesday, March 12, Melbourne vs. Illawarra, John Cain Arena, 7:30 pm AEDT
- Game 3: Sunday, March 16, Illawarra vs. Melbourne, WIN Entertainment Centre, 5:30 pm AEDT
- Game 4 (if required): Wednesday, March 19, Melbourne vs. Illawarra, John Cain Arena, 7:30 pm AEDT
- Game 5 (if needed): Sunday, March 23, Illawarra vs. Melbourne, WIN Entertainment Centre, 2:30 pm AEDT
Key Talking Points
Contrasting Styles
This series is a battle of contrasting styles: the Hawks’ high-octane offense against United’s staunch defense.
Players to Watch
Key matchups include how United plans to contain Kell and how the Hawks address Goulding’s perimeter threat.
Broadcast Information
ESPN will broadcast every game of the NBL Championship Series live.
Conclusion
With the Hawks hungry for their second title and Melbourne United battling to add another championship to their impressive resume, the 2025 NBL Grand Final is set to be a thrilling series.
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