Kings edge Hawks to reclaim Adrian Hurley Cup

The Sydney Kings reclaimed the Adrian Hurley Cup after downing Freeway Series rivals Illawarra 86-79 at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Friday night. 

The victory marks the Kings’ third straight against the Hawks in NBL23, with game four to be played at Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday, January 15. 

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Match summary 

The hosts jumped out of the blocks faster than the Kings, behind strong play by big men Sam Froling and Mangok Mathiang – seeing them lead 29-21 at quarter time. That lead quickly evaporated, as Dejan Vasiljevic and Tim Soares powered the visitors to a 24-14 second term and two-point lead at the main break. 

The two NSW rivals traded blows in the third but a couple of thunderous jams by Xavier Cooks ensured the Kings’ lead at the final change grew to five (65-60). Down the stretch, the Hawks clawed their way back to 82-80 but two key offensive board by Justin Simon proved pivotal and led to centre Soares hitting two clutch free-throws at the death. The match was iced when Cooks found Shaun Bruce with a backdoor lay-up off a well-drawn-up side-line play – as the Hoops Capital side won 86-79. 

Where the match was decided 

Sydney secured their 11th victory of NBL23 thanks to winning the statical categories of field goal percentage (45-37), rebounds (50-39), assists (20-12) and points in the paint (44-32). 

Key moment 

Following a slow first term, the Kings outscored the host 65-50 – putting an end to their fourth quarter woes. 

Player of the game 

Illawarra product Cooks starred on his return home, tallying 21 points, nine rebounds, three dimes and a key charge late in the game. 

Others to score in double-figures were Soares (18) and Vasiljevic (17). 

What’s next 

The harbour city side, who cemented top spot on the ladder with an 11-4 record, now travel to the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Sunday. 

The round 11 showdown tips off at 2pm AEDT and will be broadcast on ESPN via Kayo Sports and Foxtel as well as 10 Peach.