The NBL tips off this week for Round 1 action, kicking off with the JackJumpers vs United on Thursday night.
We have NBL betting tips for every game in 2025/26, including this week’s featured games between the Breakers vs. Bullets and Wildcats vs. JackJumpers.
NBL Round 1 Predictions
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Thursday 18/9/25
We’re surprised to see the JackJumpers listed at $1.90 for their opening game, as pre-season expectations aren’t high. However, they are high for United, so we’re snapping up the $1.90 for the visitors.
Melbourne brings in a good team with experience and new talent, and although the team doesn’t look as strong as it has over the last few years, it’s good enough to take down Tasmania.
It should be a cracking opening game, so back United to win.
United by 5
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Friday 19/9/25
We don’t like backing against the Breakers at Spark Arena, but we have high hopes for the Bullets, and they could fire a shot on Friday night in Auckland.
The Bullets boast an impressive team on paper, and although that doesn’t always translate to winning on the court, the Breakers’ lack of depth and scoring prowess could struggle to keep up with the talented American imports of Brisbane.
Punters get $1.90, and that price could firm on game night.
Bullets by 7
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Saturday 20/9/25
Our expectations for the Cairns Taipans are low, so we’re backing the Phoenix to open their 2025/26 account with a victory.
There is enough upside with the Phoenix to put the Taipans to the sword on Saturday. They have played well over the last few years since arriving in the competition, and they could get back to their best in the opening few weeks.
We’re not surprised by the –4.5 line, so include it in NBL Round 1 picks.
Phoenix by 8
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There are no odds out yet for this game, but we expect the Wildcats to be slight favourites with the help of playing at home.
Losing Bryce Cotton is a huge omission from the Wildcats roster, but they have room to bring in some talented imports, and that should be enough to get past the JackJumpers, who could be tired after the first game of the year.
We recommend taking the Wildcats and including them in NBL multis.
Wildcats by 5
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Sunday 21/9/25
We’re backing the Breakers to cause an upset on Sunday afternoon. We didn’t tip them to beat Brisbane at home, but they don’t mind playing in Melbourne.
United could be involved in a physical battle with the JackJumpers on Thursday, and although they don’t have to travel as far, the Breakers know that this is an important game.
We’re hoping for odds around $2.50 for the visitors, which is worth including as a value bet.
Breakers by 4
