THE Sydney Kings have cemented a top-two spot on the NBL23 ladder after defeating South East Melbourne at Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday. RECORDING the first triple-double of the season, the Sydney Kings have locked in an all-important top-two spot after defeating South East Melbourne Phoenix 111-106 at Qudos Bank Arena, during the club’s first-ever Pride Round fixture.
That victory, which moves the Hoops Capital side to 19-7, along with other results from round 17, will see Sydney and Cairns occupy all-important top two spots heading into the post-season.
Both teams came out aggressive, with huge finals implications on the line – with little separating (14-11 to the Phoenix) halfway through the term.
The desperate Phoenix again started the next term the stronger, thanks to an 8-5 run.
Emphatic dunks by Angus Glover and Justin Simon brought the fans to their feet and helped the Kings keep their noses in front in the second term.
As time ticked down of the half, MVP front-runner Xavier Cooks and point guard Derrick Walton Jr kept the scoreboard ticking over – guiding the reigning champions to a 56-51 lead at half-time.
That lead ballooned to nine behind a scoring outburst but wasteful turnovers kept South East Melbourne within striking distance – trailing by just two with 3.22 to play.
However a late score by Dejan Vasiljevic. gutsy stops on the defensive end and clutch free-throws by Jordi Hunter and Walton Jr, sealed the five-point win.
The first-placed harbour city side, who are now 19-7, finish their NBL23 regular season with road fixtures against Adelaide (Friday) and Perth (Sunday).
