Adelaide return to Victoria in Round 16 with redemption front of mind, looking to respond after an 82–58 loss to the Southside Melbourne Flyers at HoopsFest.
That result highlighted areas for growth, and the Adelaide Lightning will be keen to return to the more polished style that lifted them past the Geelong Venom and off the bottom of the ladder. Expect sharper execution, quicker ball movement, and sustained defensive pressure as they look to flip the result.
Adelaide are chasing a response, while Southside are pushing to lock in a top-four spot — setting the stage for a high-stakes Round 16 clash with plenty on the line. The Flyers also come in off a 111–79 home loss to Perth on Tuesday night, a result that’s likely to add extra edge and intensity to the contest.
Finals may be out of reach for Adelaide, but their ability to shape the race above them is far from done, with the Lightning well placed to make an impact on the ladder positions of teams still fighting for post-season spots.
Key Matchups & Focus Areas
Maddi Rocci v Dallas Loughridge
A key battle in the backcourt. Rocci’s physical on-ball defence and ability to disrupt rhythm will test Loughridge’s composure and control, while Loughridge’s pace, shot creation, and decision-making will be central to Adelaide’s ability to set tempo and generate offence.
Sania Feagin v Cayla George
A physical, high-IQ contest inside. Feagin’s strength, rebounding, and rim presence shapes as a key factor, while George’s experience and ability to stretch the floor present a different challenge defensively.
Impact of Adelaide’s role players
This one may be decided away from the headline names. Adelaide’s role players will be crucial — bringing energy, defensive edge, and timely scoring to swing momentum. Winning the hustle plays, extra possessions, and “next effort” moments could be the difference against a Flyers side playing with finals urgency.
Adelaide Lightning vs Southside Melbourne Flyers
📅 Saturday 31 January 2026
⏰ Tip Off 2.30pm ACDT
📍 VIC State Basketball Centre
📺 9Now | ESPN on Disney+ | ESPN2
