Get ready for some thrilling basketball action as the NBL Daily brings you the latest updates on the league's top contenders!
A New Addition to the Adelaide 36ers: NBA Veteran Joins the Team
In a swift move, the Adelaide 36ers have signed NBA veteran John Jenkins, a 34-year-old American guard, to replace Troy Brown Jr. who recently parted ways with the team due to personal reasons. Jenkins, a seasoned player with over 170 NBA games under his belt, brings a wealth of experience to the NBL. His recent stint in Romania showcased his skills, averaging an impressive 23.8 points per game.
But here's where it gets interesting: Jenkins is considered a journeyman, having played not only in the NBA but also in various leagues across the globe, including Puerto Rico, China, Spain, Israel, and Russia. This diverse experience will undoubtedly add a unique dimension to the 36ers' roster.
The team has until January 18 to officially register Jenkins, and he's expected to join his new teammates during this weekend's HoopsFest.
Undermanned Kings Pull Off a Resilient Win
In a gripping contest, the Sydney Kings, despite being short-handed, managed to edge out Melbourne United with a score of 97-94. The game was not without its challenges, including an early exit for star guard Matthew Dellavedova due to a suspected concussion.
Melbourne United's coach, Dean Vickerman, expressed concern over another key player, Tyson Walker, who is battling an injury while carrying a heavy workload. Vickerman acknowledged the team's shortcomings, stating, "We simply didn't do enough."
Since Round 13, Walker has been averaging a team-high 33.6 minutes per game, showcasing his importance to the team.
United's Slip and the Kings' Rise
The result of this game sees Melbourne United slip to fourth place on the ladder for the first time this season, overtaken by the resilient Sydney Kings. With a record of 2-8 since the FIBA break, United now has eight games left to turn their season around, starting with a HoopsFest clash against the Tasmania JackJumpers.
Concussion Concerns for the Kings
The Kings' victory was not without worry, as Dellavedova's early exit due to a suspected concussion has left the team concerned. Brian Goorjian, the Kings' coach, praised his team's resilience and spirit, especially in the face of missing two key players, Xavier Cooks and Bul Kuol.
Goorjian's post-match emotions were raw, expressing his pride in the team's performance. He highlighted the "next man up" mentality and the players' gutsy display.
Dellavedova's concussion history is well-documented, having previously kept him sidelined for months during his NBA career. His status for the upcoming HoopsFest clash with the Brisbane Bullets remains uncertain.
Stay tuned to NBL Daily for more updates and insights into the exciting world of basketball!
