Bullets vs United: Brisbane’s Woes Continue Against Melbourne

The Brisbane Bullets’ search for a win against Melbourne United continues as they suffer a 120-103 defeat at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Yet another loss in the Bullets vs United matchup marked a 12th consecutive defeat against the Victorian side dating back to March 2021.


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Norton’s milestone night interrupted by power outage

In his 350th NBL game, captain Mitch Norton demonstrated his continued importance in his 13th professional season. Starting his career as the youngest-ever Townsville Crocodiles captain at age 18, Norton’s trademark hustle plays and efficiency set high standards for his teammates. His milestone evening begins perfectly as he scores the game’s opening basket, finishing with 12 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

With 3:24 remaining and trailing 104-89, the game experienced an unexpected 30-minute delay due to a power failure. Following the interruption, the Bullets showed a brief fightback but ultimately could not bridge the gap, with United maintaining their advantage to secure the 17-point victory.

Offensive efficiency, defensive challenges

Keandre Cook erupted for a game-high 23 points, leading the Bullets’ scorers. Cook’s efficiency at the free-throw line was on full display, as he converted all 11 of his attempts. This aggressive, attack-minded approach from the Bullets was reflected in their impressive 29-for-33 performance from the charity stripe as a team.

Casey Prather added 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Josh Bannan chipped in 17 points and 6 boards. Tyrell Harrison also made his mark, finishing with 13 points and 6 rebounds.

Even with coach Justin Schueller placing a heavy emphasis on defensive intensity, the Bullets were unable to stop Melbourne United, who poured in 85 points through the first three quarters. The Bullets got outmuscled and out-hustled: United outscored Brisbane 44-32 in the paint, 20-13 in second-chance opportunities, and 13-4 advantage in transition.

Looking forward

The loss drops Brisbane to a 3-5 record after playing a league-low eight games. They now have an extended break before facing the Tasmania JackJumpers at MyState Bank Arena on Friday, 15 November, followed by a home clash against the Perth Wildcats on Sunday, 17 November.


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The loss also carries additional concern with experienced forward Jarred Bairstow suffering what appeared to be a serious lower leg injury, adding another challenge for the team to overcome as they look to improve their position in NBL25.

Published 08-November-2024


Match preview published on 03-November-2024.

Bullets vs United: Bullets Look to Upset Melbourne in Norton’s Landmark Game

Bullets vs United: Bullets Look to Upset United in Norton's Landmark Game

The Brisbane Bullets (3-4) are set to celebrate captain Mitch Norton’s 350th NBL game when they host second-ranked Melbourne United (7-3) this Thursday, 7 November. Bullets vs United tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.


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Strong form despite early struggles

Fresh off an impressive 92-88 comeback victory against the Cairns Taipans, the Bullets showcased their trademark late-game resilience—a consistent factor throughout the early season. Norton’s defensive excellence was evident in Cairns, where he spent most of his 33 minutes containing Taipans’ star Rob Edwards.

“We’re very lucky to have him and there is not a person in our organisation that doesn’t feel that way,” says coach Justin Schueller, discussing Norton’s influence. “We’re going to make sure we celebrate that [his 350th game] the right way.”

Evolving guard rotation; patient youth development

The Bullets’ guard rotation has transformed from its initial NBL25 strategy. What began with James Batemon starting and Norton coming off the bench has evolved into an effective partnership, with Norton starting and Batemon providing scoring punch as sixth man.

Batemon’s offensive firepower was on full display in Cairns, leading all scorers with 21 points, while centre Tyrell Harrison dominated the boards with 14 points and 20(!) rebounds.

While veterans lead the charge, the Bullets maintain a measured approach to youth development. NBA prospect Rocco Zikarsky’s playing time—averaging under 10 minutes per game with just 5 minutes in Cairns—has been a subject of fan discussion online. Veteran teammate Casey Prather emphasises patience in the 18-year-old’s journey.

“There’s no ceiling, the only thing is going to be him and how hard he can take it on, and how patient he is,” Prather tells Sydney Morning Herald. “NBA teams are salivating over him right now.”


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Bullets vs United

Melbourne United arrives as one of the NBL’s hottest teams, riding a three-game winning streak and showcasing their championship credentials. The Bullets’ recent form, winning three of their last four games, suggests they’re ready for the challenge against the league’s second-ranked outfit.

With both teams hitting their stride, Thursday’s clash promises high-quality basketball between two in-form sides.

Bullets Blaze Through Blitz: Brisbane’s NBL25 Season Preview

The Brisbane Bullets kicked off their NBL25 campaign in impressive fashion, securing the Loggins-Bruton Cup as champions of the pre-season Blitz tournament.

This success goes beyond the trophy; it’s a significant step in building a winning culture for the team and setting the tone for the season ahead.

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Blitz success fuels optimism

Head coach Justin Schueller emphasises the importance of this pre-season performance, stating, “We’re at a stage of our program where we need to try and win everything we can.”

The Bullets’ clean sweep during the Blitz, which included victories over Melbourne United, South East Melbourne Phoenix, and the Cairns Taipans, highlights the team’s potential and depth as they head into the regular season.

If Brisbane can carry this form into the regular season, an improved record seems imminent and they could make a deep postseason push.

An inconsistent 2023/24

The 2023/24 season saw inconsistency plague the Bullets, finishing seventh with 13 wins and 15 losses. Missing out on the play-in by the slimmest of margins due to percentage, Brisbane showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t string together consistent performances.

However, they competed fiercely against top teams and appeared like a top-six contender for much of the season.

Individual standouts and team depth

Tyrell Harrison emerged as the standout of the Blitz, earning the Ray Borner Medal with averages of 17.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. His efficient shooting—64.3% from the floor and 84.2% from the free-throw line—underscored his improved offensive game.

Schueller’s praise for Harrison shows the high expectations surrounding the centre this season. “I don’t think Tyrell is a secret anymore,” Schueller remarks, signalling that Harrison is ready to become a key player in the team’s strategy.

“I think he’s showing what we’ve known inside the walls for a while, that he’s ready to take a leap,” Schueller adds. This timely progression coincides perfectly with the Bullets’ roster shake-up, as former NBA champion Aron Baynes bid farewell to the team during the offseason.

The Bullets’ strength extends beyond Harrison. Promising performances from NBL Next Star Rocco Zikarsky and new arrivals Deng Adel, Keandre Cook, and James Batemon III add depth to the roster.

Brisbane fans anticipate Josh Bannan and Sam McDaniel to build upon their stellar 2023/24 performances; and they expect continued solid contributions from Tohi Smith-Milner and Jarred Bairstow. Meanwhile, veteran leaders Mitch Norton, Casey Prather, and Isaac White shoulder the responsibility of steering the team through the season.

All eyes on Rocco Zikarsky

At just 18 years old, Rocco Zikarsky represents the future of Australian basketball. Standing at 7-foot-3, Zikarsky is already projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His time training alongside former Bullet and Boomer Aron Baynes has provided invaluable mentorship, accelerating his development.

Zikarsky’s aspirations reach far beyond the NBL, with his eyes on representing Australia in the 2028 and 2032 Olympics. “Especially with 2032 being a home Olympics,” Zikarsky notes, emphasising his desire to be a core player for the Boomers on home soil.

Back to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The Brisbane Bullets will make a highly anticipated return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre for their home opener on 5 October, facing off against the Sydney Kings. This marks their first game at the venue in 16 years, reclaiming what was once their fortress.

The Bullets’ offseason acquisitions, alongside Harrison’s breakout and the continued development of Zikarsky, position the Bullets as a formidable contender in the NBL25 season.

Read: Brisbane Bullets Back to Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Aim for New Heights with Major Move

With their success in the Blitz and the return to their formidable home ground, all eyes will be on the Bullets. Will this be the season they finally break their playoff drought?

Published 17-September-2024

Brisbane Bullets Back to Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Aim for New Heights with Major Move

In a bid to accommodate their growing fan base and elevate the game-day experience, the Brisbane Bullets are returning to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall for the upcoming NBL25 season.

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After regularly selling out the smaller Nissan Arena last season, the move to the 10,500-seat BEC marks a significant step forward for the franchise, according to Bullets CEO Malcolm Watts. 

He says the decision enables the club to cater to the booming popularity of basketball in South East Queensland and enhance all aspects of the game presentation.

With the shift to the larger venue, the Bullets are aiming to deliver an NBA-style product, complete with enhanced infrastructure and amenities for fans. Watts emphasises the club’s commitment to revamping the Entertainment Centre to match the experience of other top NBL venues, promising an elevated game presentation and increased seating, premium hospitality, and parking options.

Brisbane Bullets reconnect with history, build for the future

The return to the BEC also holds a sense of nostalgia for the Bullets, who won their most recent NBL championships in 2007 and 1987 at the iconic venue.

Coach Justin Schueller, in his first season at the helm, is thrilled by the prospect of reviving the team’s winning tradition at the arena. He encourages fans to transform the venue into a fortress and support the team’s pursuit of another championship banner.

Beyond the on-court experience, the Bullets are also investing in their long-term future. Construction is underway on a purpose-built High Performance Centre in South Brisbane, which will provide elite training facilities, treatment rooms, offices, and a merchandise store, all under one roof.

According to Watts, having a dedicated home base will be a game-changer for the club, providing a significant platform for on-court and off-court success.

The centre’s central location is expected to boost the club’s brand presence and exposure, while also strengthening its ties to the local basketball community through development programs and potential junior academies.

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After a disappointing 2022–23 campaign, the Bullets showed signs of life last season, finishing 13-15 and narrowly missing the playoffs via tiebreaker. With Schueller—regarded as one of Aussie hoops’ most promising young minds—as head coach and the additions of a dedicated training facility and a larger home venue, the franchise is well-positioned to continue its rebuilding process and reclaim its place among the NBL’s elite.

Published 19-June-2024