The Sydney Kings have solidified their status as a formidable force in the National Basketball League (NBL) with a commanding 95-70 victory over the Brisbane Bullets on Tuesday night. This win marks their sixth consecutive triumph, propelling them into third place behind Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers.
Rival coach Darryl McDonald, interim head coach for the Bullets, issued a stark warning to the league, acknowledging that the Kings have “all the pieces” necessary to clinch the NBL championship. McDonald noted, “Right now, they are easily playing the best basketball in the league. Their pressure sped us up, turned us over, and we struggled with it.”
The Kings’ Rapid Ascent
The Kings’ recent performance has been nothing short of spectacular, winning 10 of their last 12 games. This impressive stretch includes victories over top-tier teams like the Perth Wildcats, Melbourne United, and the Adelaide 36ers, underscoring their emergence as genuine title contenders.
Leading the charge against the Bullets was Xavier Cooks, who posted 20 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Kendric Davis contributed with 14 points and seven assists, while import Tim Soares added 14 points and seven rebounds. Kings head coach Brian Goorjian expressed optimism about the team’s trajectory, stating, “I like what’s going on, I like where we’re headed.”
Building a Sustainable Success
Goorjian’s focus has been on creating a sustainable winning culture. Despite a challenging previous season, the foundations laid during that time are beginning to yield tangible results. “It was built around that [defensive] concept, and this year we’ve gradually added to it and built on it,” Goorjian explained.
The Kings’ defensive prowess has been a key factor in their recent success. Over their six-game winning streak, they have maintained the league’s best defensive rating, holding opponents to an average of 81.5 points per game. They have also limited teams to a league-low 39.5% shooting from the field and 27.8% from beyond the arc, while conceding just 0.99 points per possession.
By the Numbers: Kings’ Defensive Mastery
- 81.5 points per game allowed
- 39.5% opponent field goal percentage
- 27.8% opponent three-point percentage
- 0.99 points per possession conceded
Player Insights and Team Dynamics
Tim Soares, reflecting on the team’s mindset shift, emphasized the importance of an aggressive defensive mentality. “We were treading water instead of really diving in earlier in the season,” Soares remarked. “When our mentality is being the aggressor on defence, it completely changes the game.”
Soares, a member of the Kings’ championship team in NBL23, understands the demands of winning at the highest level. “Obviously, we’re not going to win every single game, but if we want to have a chance at this, we need to play at this kind of level,” he added.
Goorjian has fostered a culture of accountability and communication among the players. “While I introduced this, I’m not driving it anymore,” he stated. “With all the players communicating and holding each other accountable, the pressure and intent they’re playing with is contagious.”
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Test Against Adelaide
The Kings now turn their attention to a significant upcoming challenge as they travel to Adelaide to face the 36ers. The two teams have already clashed twice this season, with Sydney emerging victorious on both occasions. In their last encounter, the Kings showcased a defensive masterclass, limiting Adelaide to just 79 points.
In that game, Cooks delivered a stellar performance with 27 points, eight rebounds, and two assists, while Davis shone with 27 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. With confidence building and form peaking, the Kings aim to extend their winning streak to seven and close the gap on Melbourne United in the race for second place on the ladder.
The Kings’ current form and tactical evolution suggest that they are not only contenders but potential favorites for the NBL championship. As they continue to refine their game, the rest of the league will undoubtedly be on high alert.
