Bullets fire with strong win over Kings

In front of an energised Brisbane crowd, the Bullets claimed an impressive 90-87 victory over the Sydney Kings, to chalk up their first win of NBL21.

It was a fast start, with both teams pushing the pace early. The Bullets offence was generating some great looks towards the basket and they were capitalising on majority of them.

There were runs from both teams throughout the first half but the home side took a narrow 47-45 lead into half time. 

An entertaining battle continued in the second half and despite a couple of late pushes from the Kings, the Bullets seemed in control and were able get scores and rebounds when they needed to to remain ahead. There were also some positives on the defensive end with the Bullets playing with great energy, coming away with nine blocks.

Coming into the game Brisbane ranked first in the league in assists. Their ball movement was continually effective, as was their ability to get to the rim, scoring 50 of their 90 points in the paint. 

Vic Law had an outstanding outing, filling up the stat sheet with 27 points, nine rebounds and five blocks including shooting 11/15 from the field. Already averaging a double-double, he looked sharp from the opening jump, with 11 of his points in the opening quarter to get the home side going.

Nathan Sobey’s athleticism and efficiency was again on display, getting to the basket with ease, on his way to 26 points shooting 53%, seven assists and six rebounds.

Tyrrell Harrison provided a great spark off the bench, finishing with his first career double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds. Perhaps the most impressive part of his game were the hustle plays that don’t appear on the stat sheet but made a huge difference in the momentum of the game. 

Matt Hodgson’s presence was also felt for the home side, returning from injury for his first minutes in NBL21. Despite minute restrictions, he provided an additional layer of protection in the paint finishing with a couple of blocks and baskets.

The Bullets will look to continue their positive momentum as they take on interstate rivals, Cairns Taipans on Saturday 30 January.

Brisbane Bullets: 90 (Law 27, Sobey 26, Cadee 11, Harrison 11)

Sydney Kings: 87 (Martin 26, Ware 15, Vasiljevic 13)