Hunter to chalk up 100th game against Hawks

For numerous players, this Saturday's season-opener against Illawarra will represent the first time they've put on a Kings jersey in a proper NBL fixture.

As large as that milestone will be, another King will chalk up an even bigger one in round one of the NBL24 season.

Sydney product Jordi Hunter will play both his 100th NBL game and 100th match in the purple and gold - becoming just the 26th player in club history to do so.

"It is a massive honour [to bring up this milestone]," said Hunter, who has 552 points, 369 rebounds and 61 blocks in his career.

"I feel very fortunate to represent such a great club and these 100 games are a testament to the Kings and to those around me.

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"The belief of those closest to me and the support of wonderful teammates, coaches, front office and on-the-ground staff gave me a chance to make it this far - it really means the world."

The 26-year-old admits this milestone also wouldn't be possible if not for the commitment of the harbour city club's performance team.

"I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the passion and patience of our performance and medical team," the centre said.

"There are people facing much harsher realities than injury in sport, but they can still be dark days.

"I will always be grateful, not only for their world-class expertise but the friendship of those who helped me back to the court."

Watch Jordi Hunter's 100-game well-wishes video via Sydney Kings' YouTube channel above. While you're there, be sure to hit subscribe, to ensure you never miss out on any of our great videos.

The North Bears junior, who was part of the Hoops Capital club's back-to-back championships, is confident his Kings can start their NBL24 in winning fashion on Saturday.

"We have to play our brand of basketball [on Saturday]," said the Saint Mary's Gaels alum.

"There’s a lot of new faces, so there will always be a teething process, but we’re ready to show what we’re about.

"If we go out and dictate terms on both sides of the ball, we’ll put ourselves in a great position to win."

The round one Freeway Series clash, which is the first of four Adrian Hurley Cup clashes between the two NSW rivals, tips off at 8pm AEST on Saturday - with it being broadcast live on ESPN via Kayo Sports and Foxtel.