Melbourne United have one hand on the NBL minor premiership after out-muscling and out-hustling the Illawarra Hawks to claim an 80-73 win in Wollongong.
With two games remaining, Melbourne are alone at the top of the ladder with an 18-8 record.
Silky smooth American guard Stephen Holt racked up a game-high 23 points for Melbourne on Thursday night at WIN Entertainment Centre and backcourt partner Chris Goulding added 13, as United prevailed 3-1 in their season series with the Hawks.
Illawarra were led by import Kevin Lisch's 21 points, while hard-working forward Cody Ellis finished with 17 off the bench.
The third-placed Hawks (15-11) have lost three of their past four games.
Illawarra hope to welcome back experienced forward Kirk Penney from a two-week injury layoff on Saturday night when they host the Townsville Crocodiles.
If Melbourne keep hold of top spot, Dean Demopolous will become the first coach in 26 years to guide his team to the minor premiership in his debut season.
Melbourne's bruising performance cemented their standing as the league's best road team and should bury any doubts over whether they have the physical and mental toughness to win the title.
Illawarra had averaged 98 points in home games this season before being shut down by Melbourne and making just seven of 32 three-point shots.
Melbourne will have their final tune-up for the post-season with games against titleholders New Zealand on Friday February 12 (away) and the following Sunday (Feb 14) at home.
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