Illawarra’s response against Adelaide looks more meaningful than the score alone. The Hawks moved the ball, won extra possessions and made Bryce Cotton work for his looks. South East Melbourne is creating chances but its heavy three-point shooting has not paid off. That contrast is where this match turns for me.
Illawarra had 33 assists in its 114–92 win, collected 16 offensive rebounds and held Cotton to four shot attempts. Sam Froling added 19 points and 13 rebounds, giving the Hawks a strong inside presence to go with their guards’ improved movement.
The Phoenix grabbed 17 offensive rebounds against Perth and still lost 92–88 after making 12 of 45 threes. Josh King says they are getting good looks and plans to keep trusting those shooters. Illawarra’s sharper defense and work on the glass give it a way to make those missed shots matter.
