Pelicans Sweep Australia in historic NBAxNBL Exhibition
The New Orleans Pelicans completed a historic NBAxNBL pre-season tour with a dominant 127-92 victory over South East Melbourne on Sunday at Rod Laver Arena. The win sealed a 2-0 series sweep after a 107-97 triumph over Melbourne United two days earlier, marking the first time an NBA team has played in Australia under this innovative showcase.
Zion Williamson: Defensive Impact Sets the Tone
While Zion Williamson is often celebrated for his scoring, this game underscored his growing impact on the defensive end. Williamson logged 15 minutes in the first half and did not return after halftime, as he eases into what many expect to be a breakout season. He finished with eight points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks, a stat line that highlights his all-around contributions and his willingness to take on multiple assignments on the floor.
Pelicans’ Balanced Attack
New Orleans demonstrated depth beyond Williamson, with Saddiq Bey pouring in 21 points, Jordan Poole adding 15, and Jeremiah Fears contributing 12 as part of a well-rounded offensive display. The Pelicans broke the game open in the second period, building a 20-point cushion as their shooting fortune compared favorably to SE Melbourne’s.
Early Showdown and Key Moments
The game’s early rhythm favored the Pelicans, who established control from the opening tip. A notable sequence featured Poole connecting with Karlo Matkovic for a half-court alley-oop that electrified the crowd, while Williamson’s hustle helped set up Fears for a late second-quarter dunk with a double clutch that drew cheers from the bench and stands alike.
South East Melbourne Fighters
For the SE Melbourne Phoenix, Jordan Hunter led the way with 17 points, while Nathan Sobey and Akech Aliir each reached 16. The Phoenix also saw a promising first outing against NBA competition from NBL Next Star Malique Lewis, who finished with eight points, five rebounds, four assists and two turnovers in his debut against NBA talent.
Injury Note and Takeaways
New Orleans guard Jose Alvarado limped off with a right knee issue in the third quarter and did not return, a temporary scare for the Pelicans as they manage minutes in a pre-season setting. Despite the hiccup, the overall performance reinforced the Pelicans’ confidence as they prepare for the regular season. The team’s early success in Australia adds to a growing expectation for a more cohesive and aggressive defensive identity this season.
Historical Context of NBAxNBL
NBA teams have now won 25 of 26 pre-season games against NBL clubs since the NBAxNBL series began in 2017, with the lone exception being the Adelaide 36ers’ upset of the Phoenix Suns in 2022. The Pelicans’ Australia run continues to strengthen the cross-continental bond and showcases the league’s global reach.
As the Pelicans head back home, fans will be watching to see how Williamson, Bey, Poole and Fears translate this early-season form to the grind of the NBA schedule, and whether the defensive emphasis on this trip foreshadows a season defined by versatility and sustained excellence on both ends of the floor.
