THE SECOND of the NBL x NBA clashes took place at John Cain Arena on Sunday afternoon, with the New Orleans Pelicans facing the SEM Phoenix in another exhibition clash, and although the result was disappointing, Next Star Malique Lewis stood out.

Lewis withdrew from the 2025 NBA Draft to return to the Phoenix and increase his stock in a second season in the Next Star program. Although defensively sound, he still had some improvements to make on the offensive end to move up the draft boards.

Following their 10-point win over Melbourne United on Friday night, the Pelicans faced their cross town rivals in the Phoenix, who had fallen to United in the Throwdown clash the week prior. South East Melbourne faced a tall order against New Orleans, but would be better off for the experience against an NBA side.

The Pelicans stormed out to a commanding lead, and following a high-scoring first half, led 74-55 at the main change. Although New Orleans took the foot off the accelerator in the final two quarters, the visitors still cruised home to a 35-point win.

Despite the disappointing result from a team perspective, Lewis was still able to have himself a solid day at the office, showing just how versatile his game has become and make his mark against a quality NBA opponent.

South East Melbourne Phoenix (92) def. by New Orleans Pelicans (127)

Malique Lewis – eight points, five rebounds, four assists

Much like Dash Daniels, it was a big test for Lewis against an NBA outfit on Sunday afternoon, but would have surely caught the eye of scouts with a solid showing against the Pelicans, playing the wing position well against some more experienced opponents.

As a scorer, Lewis was able to drive inside and make an impact at the basket, not intimidated by the size of his opponents, with the Pelicans bringing some much bigger players than the NBL is used to. However, the Next Star showed no fear and even had an impressive finish through contact, although he could not convert at the charity stripe.

Regardless, it was a solid scoring performance from the youngster on a day where baskets were hard to come by for his team. Although he did not showcase his improved shooting form from long range, it was still a strong level of confidence and aggression from the Next Star.

He was typically reliable on the glass, but it was his improved form as a playmaker that proved the difference in this performance in comparison to last season. Lewis was able to put the ball on the floor and make the right passes, showing improved vision and execution to finish with four assists for the game to round out a balanced performance.

He finished the match with eight points, five boards and four assists in one of his most well-rounded showings as a member of the Next Star program. It is evident that Lewis has worked hard to address some key areas of improvement in his game over the off-season, and may have done himself plenty of favours with Sunday’s performance.