Chance to takedown world-beaters Adelaide excites Walton

Big games are nothing new to Sydney Kings import Derrick Walton Jr.

If anything, he thrives in them.

So the fact his Hoops Capital side is hosting the Adelaide 36ers, fresh off defeating the Phoenix Suns, excites the Michigan native.

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“Kudos to Adelaide for that win but it doesn’t motivate any more to beat them - I take every team seriously when I step on the court,” said Walton, who admits he’s adjusting to finding new ways to score and set up his teammates in the NBL compared to his previous stop in the NBA.

“We’re excited to take on another strong side and prove ourselves once again.”

The round four match-up will also pit him up against fellow American point guard Craig Randall II - who Walton says he’s 2-0 against in his career.

“I treat everyone I come up against the same and Craig is no different,” he said.

“I try and make everything difficult for my opponent and if all five of us do that on the court, against their five, it will hold us in good stead.”

On top of that, the Michigan Wolverines alum is keen to see his side grow as a unit.

“Last week’s response in Brisbane wasn't so much a boost to our confidence, rather a solidifier of exactly how good we can be,” said Walton, who’s loved playing in front of the Kings faithful at Qudos Bank Arena.

“Another win on Friday would only add to that, as well as the morale around the team.”

Tip-off for Friday’s match is at 7.30pm AEDT.