2025-10-26

Melbourne 81 - 80 Adelaide

Melbourne secured a one-point victory over Adelaide despite shooting at a lower clip and committing more turnovers. The differential was largely determined by free throws and second-chance opportunities, as Melbourne's offensive rebounding rate of nearly 40 percent in the final frame led to 12 of their 18 free throw attempts. Adelaide outshot Melbourne overall, connecting on 49.2 percent of their field goals compared to the 40.6 percent mark, but their inability to secure offensive rebounds and draw fouls limited their chances at the line. Adelaide had 17 turnovers, which directly resulted in 11 Melbourne points, while their 25 assists against 17 turnovers highlighted a more efficient offensive flow. The game turned in the fourth quarter when Adelaide's starters returned and a series of turnovers allowed Melbourne to build a seven-point lead, though Adelaide closed the gap through a late surge.