Phoenix star set for return

20 Jan 2026

Phoenix star Nathan Sobey has recovered from an illness and will suit up against New Zealand on Wednesday night.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have received a massive boost ahead of Wednesday's Ignite Cup clash with New Zealand.

The club announced on Tuesday that star Nathan Sobey would return to the lineup for the State Basketball Centre clash, after missing the team's HoopsFest win over Adelaide through illness.

🚨 TEAM NEWS 🚨

Spotted alive and well, Nathan Sobey rejoins the team for tomorrow’s Ignite Cup game vs NZ Breakers after missing last round due to illness. pic.twitter.com/hSYhJa93nK
— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) January 20, 2026

Olympic bronze medallist Sobey is enjoying a career-best season in NBL26, averaging 22.8 points, 4.7 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game.

Wednesday's Ignite Cup game tips off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.