It’s been a while since a hoops game was the hottest ticket in town but, four days out from the Throwdown basketbrawl rematch, the excitement in Melbourne is palpable.
Bitter rivals Melbourne and South East Melbourne got back on the winners list on the weekend, United disposing of the Perth Wildcats on Saturday and the Phoenix taking care of Tasmania on Sunday.
Now, all eyes are on each other as they face off for the first time since the spiteful pre-Christmas encounter that had a massive dunk that eclipsed 10 million views on social media, intense celebrations, a big hip-and-shoulder, a sideline scuffle, behind the scenes argy-bargy and a suspension to top it off.
It will be a surprise if there are no fireworks in the return bout.
Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell said the focus was now squarely on what his side must do to maintain its supremacy over United after it claimed a 96-84 win in the fiery December 12 encounter.
“It’s a Thursday night, it’s in Melbourne, I can’t wait,” Mitchell said.
“I hope it’s a great crowd.
“You’ve got two of the top-three teams in the league at the moment, and yeah, I think all of Melbourne should be scrapping for a ticket.”
Phoenix can almost see the other side of a Covid crush that has forced six players – and Mitchell – onto the sidelines at different times over the past month.
Import point guard Xavier Munford remains the missing xjmtzywlink after he was a late scratching from Thursday night’s clash with Sydney.
The uncertainty of the Covid protocols means Munford is a wait and see for the Throwdown.
“I was hoping I wouldn’t get that question, I was thinking don’t ask about Munford,” Mitchell said.
“I’ve got no idea, mate.
“I think he might get out on Wednesday … I’m the wrong bloke to ask.”
