In a thrilling National Basketball League (NBL) matchup on December 17, 2025, the Sydney Kings faced off against the Adelaide 36ers at AIS Arena in Canberra. Star guards Kendric Davis and Bryce Cotton showcased their skills in a showdown billed as a battle of the league’s elite.
Sydney Kings Achieve Overtime Victory
The game ended with a nail-biting 97-93 win for the Kings. After trailing by as much as 18 points in the second quarter, Sydney showed remarkable resilience. Their comeback was inspired by strong performances from both Davis and teammate Matthew Dellavedova.
Key Performers
- Kendric Davis: 27 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists
- Bryce Cotton: 25 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists
- Matthew Dellavedova: Scored crucial points in overtime
- Xavier Cooks: Scored a season-high 27 points
Game Recap
Throughout the match, both teams exchanged leads, with Adelaide initially establishing dominance. They showcased aggressive play, allowing DJ Vasiljevic to score 11 points in just five minutes off the bench. By halftime, the 36ers led by 13 points, controlling the game with an effective defense and strong rebounding.
Turnaround in the Second Half
However, Sydney’s coach Brian Goorjian made critical adjustments at halftime. The Kings emerged rejuvenated in the third quarter, limiting Adelaide to just nine points while scoring 20 themselves. This shift allowed them to take a one-point lead heading into the final quarter.
Community Support
Support for the event was evident, as Canberra welcomed a sellout crowd of 4,154 fans—its largest in recent history for an NBL game. Many locals came out to enjoy the intense matchup, showcasing the city’s growing passion for basketball.
Looking Ahead
This game not only highlighted the individual talents of players like Davis and Cotton, but it also demonstrated the resilience of the Kings. With this victory, the Sydney Kings continue their pursuit of excellence in the NBL, fortifying their position as a contender for the championship.
