Zikarsky, Olbrich star as Chance 'Spurs' hot start

• Rocco Zikarsky and Lachlan Olbrich have monster games in two game series
• Jacob Chance pushes further ahead at the top of the South Division
• Luke Travers records fourth straight game with 20 or more points

Aussie rookies Rocco Zikarsky and Lachlan Olbrich went head-to-head in a regular-season two game mini-series, with both showcasing their NBA potential as the matchups ended in a stalemate.

Rising Australian coach Jacob Chance continues to make waves in the US, guiding his Austin Spurs to a 7–1 record and creating valuable breathing room at the top of the South Division. Meanwhile, it was a tougher week for Luke Travers, Akoldah Gak and Alex Toohey, whose one-game outings all ended in losses.

Their G-League sides fell to divisional rivals, hitting an early-season hurdle in their playoff pushes.

Performance of the Week

Lachlan Olbrich: 23 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists against the Iowa Wolves

Australians in the G-League:

Rocco Zikarsky: PTS: 13.3 | RPG: 7.3 | BLK: 2.4 | FG%: 51

This past week saw Rocco Zikarsky and fellow Australian rookie Lachlan Olbrich face off twice, with the pair finishing one win apiece. Zikarsky has continued to shine as the Iowa Wolves’ leading presence off the bench, already registering two double-doubles from his first seven outings. Known for his physical style and ability to disrupt on both ends, Zikarsky delivered another strong stretch of performances. In their loss, he produced 14 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, which were a testament to the professionalism and consistency he brings from the second unit. He was even better in the Wolves’ 156–128 victory over Olbrich’s Windy City Bulls. The 7’3” Aussie big man was dominant, finishing with 13 points, seven rebounds, three steals and five blocks. His efforts have helped propel Iowa to a 5–2 record, placing them third in the Central Division.

Lachlan Olbrich: PTS: 17.2 | RPG: 9.0 | APG: 6.6 | 3P%: 46

Lachlan Olbrich’s Windy City Bulls were handed their first loss of the season by Rocco Zikarsky and the Iowa Wolves. Their 1–1 split for the week was enough to keep them on top of the Central Division, but conceding 156 points on Saturday may hint at some defensive vulnerability. As one of the Bulls’ key sources of production, Olbrich delivered his usual output, finishing with 23 points, five rebounds and eight assists in their 144–140 shootout win over the Wolves. His consistency and all-round impact have been major factors in the Bulls’ red-hot start to the season. Although he experienced an off night shooting the ball in their second meeting, Olbrich still contributed 17 points, eight rebounds and three assists. His strong start to the season has been impressive, and his shooting splits of 50/41/72 highlight the makings of a modern, dynamic big man well suited to today’s game.

Jacob Chance

• 4th in Defensive Rating (105.1)
• 5th in Net Rating (10.1)
• 5th in Steals per game (11.7)
• 7-1 record

Jacob Chance’s Austin Spurs went 3–1 over the past week, holding firm at the top of the Southern Division. The Spurs faced the Osceola Magic, the team shaping up as their biggest challenger, and split the series 1–1. In an unexpected twist for a side that has lit up the league with its cut-throat defence, Austin found themselves in two high-scoring shootouts that put their offensive firepower to the test. The Spurs broke 115 points or more in three games, asserting their dominance over division rivals the Rio Grande Valley Vipers and pushing their record out to an impressive 7–1. Aussie coach Jacob Chance has been assured and composed to start his tenure as a G League head coach. This week, he showcased his adaptability and late-game poise, guiding his Spurs through several tight finishes after a run of dominant wins.

Luke Travers: PTS: 22.8 | RPG: 7.0 | APG: 4.8 | SPG: 2.0

Luke Travers, on a two-way contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, has continued to split his time between the NBA and the G League. This week he featured in one game for the Cleveland Charge, who sit at .500 and hold fifth place in the Central Division. Travers delivered 20 points, four rebounds and five assists in the loss to the Grand Rapids Gold, marking his fourth straight game with 20 or more points. The talented 24-year-old has become a key piece in Cleveland’s push for success this season. However, his intermittent availability, brought about by his NBA commitments, will disrupt the Charge’s rhythm at times. With his skillset so crucial to keeping the team energised and functioning smoothly, his absence is often felt just as much as his presence.

Alex Toohey: PTS: 7.0 | RPG: 3.0 | APG: 1.0 | 3P%: 40

In his second game back from injury, Alex Toohey and the Santa Cruz Warriors faced the undefeated South Bay Lakers. Toohey struggled with his shooting but still found ways to contribute, finishing with four steals, two rebounds and two assists in the Warriors’ loss. Now sitting at 0–7, Santa Cruz have plenty of work ahead if they’re to turn their season around. With two games under his belt since returning from injury, Toohey should only grow in confidence as the season progresses. His energy and impact off the bench may prove vital in sparking life into an otherwise flat Warriors outfit.

Akoldah Gak: PTS: 5.0 | RPG: 3.2 | APG: 0.7 | FG%: 55

Akoldah Gak, looking to lift his production, was given 13 minutes of court time in the Go-Go’s matchup with the Westchester Knicks. Although he didn’t attempt a field goal, he contributed on the defensive end with four rebounds and two blocks. The loss drops the Washington Go-Go back to .500, leaving them fourth in the East Division and three games adrift of the undefeated Raptors 905.

The blockbuster matchup between Aussie bigs Rocco Zikarsky and Lachlan Olbrich didn’t disappoint, with both rookies showing a touch of class as their sides split the mini-series. Head coach Jacob Chance continues to pass every test thrown his way, with his Austin Spurs firing out to a 7–1 start. Meanwhile, the rest of the Aussie G-League contingent face uphill battles, as their sides faltered in last week’s matchups and sit outside the playoff spots.