Kelly: "We're playing for the City"

Ahead of the Throwdown on Thursday night, South East Melbourne coach Mike Kelly understands that this is more than just a regular season game.

“We’re playing for (the city of) Melbourne,” Kelly said after practice on Wednesday.

“It’s a fight and whoever wins gets bragging rights in Melbourne. I think there’s a little more to it than just any run-of-the-mill NBL game.”

After being swept by their cross-town rival last season, Kelly hopes to turn things around in NBL25 and give their fans a show.

“We’re excited. After the game in Perth, we’re super stocked to get a chance to go play a good physical Melbourne United team,” Kelly said.

“I know the guys are super-stoked and just want to play in front of the home fans.”

When asked what the team needs to change after their opening round loss to Perth, Kelly had a simple answer.

“Play defence,” Kelly added.

“Basically, if we defend, I think we’re going to be able to play with anybody. If we just play offence, I think it will be a score fest and we will win some and then lose some.

“We have such a new group and we’re getting better every day. We’re focusing on the fundamentals but we have to hold each other accountable.”