Must-win Adrian Hurley Cup blockbuster awaits Kings

The importance of Sunday's Freeway Series clash with the Illawarra Hawks hasn't been lost on the Sydney Kings playing group.

After losing Friday's clash with Adelaide, the Hoops Capital side now sit in fifth spot, with a 12-14 record - one spot behind the Hawks.

And with this being the last time the purple and gold will play in front of their loyal fans during the NBL24 regular season, Kings' NBL Next Star Alex Toohey knows his side is locked into getting the win on Sunday at Qudos Bank Arena.

"We know the importance of every possession this late in the season, so we need to keep valuing possessions [more than we have been]," the Canberra-born Toohey said.

"[We know how] crucial this game is for us in order to make the post-season. 

"[After our recent run of form] every game is a must-win now - the team knows everything is on the line."

GRAB YOUR TICKETS TO THE KINGS' HOME MATCHES NOW

In order to secure victory and keep the two-time defending champions' top-four hope alive, Toohey knows how his team are going to slow the resurgent NSW rivals.

"Will need to start [the game] well and shut down their imports [Gary Clark, Tyler Harvey and Justin Robinson]," the 19-year-old said.

"Add to that, we need to rebound the ball well."

ALL OR NOTHING ??

This Sunday's blockbuster at @qudosbankarena is a must-win for both Freeway Series rivals.

Grab your tickets to our last regular-season home game against the @illawarrahawks now ? https://t.co/UCE3EurV3V#LetItReign pic.twitter.com/4KItdDoDKS

— Sydney Kings (@SydneyKings) February 5, 2024

Not only will finals places be on the line during the round 19 match-up but so will the Adrian Hurley Cup.

The Kings currently lead the season series 2-1 and will retain the cup with a win.

But Justin Tatum's troops, who won the Christmas night game between the rivals, can claim the trophy if they defeat Mahmoud Abdelfattah's men by 31 points or more on Sunday.

Tickets to the blockbuster clash are still available here.