17
Dec
Match Recap
Kings duo Cooks 36ers in comeback OT victory
Kendric Davis of the Kings \during the round 13 NBL match between Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers at AIS Arena, on December 17, 2025, in Canberra, Australia. Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images
Kendric Davis and Xavier Cooks combined for 54 points as Sydney lifted their title credentials
- Kendric Davis and Xavier Cooks both had 27 points as Sydney beat Adelaide 97-93 at AIS Arena
- Bryce Cotton had 25 points, 18 of them in the first half
- The Kings have now beaten both Adelaide and Melbourne United twice this season
Sydney Kings defeated Adelaide 36ers 97-93 in overtime at AIS Arena. Kendric Davis and Xavier Cooks' dual 27-point performances powered the thrilling four-point win.
Davis had a game-tying layup at the end of regulation to send the game into overtime.
Key Details
- Result: Sydney Kings 97 def. Adelaide 36ers 93 (OT)
- When: Tuesday, December 17, 2025
- Where: AIS Arena, Canberra
- Attendance: 4154
- Standings: Sydney Kings | Adelaide 36ers (Standings)
By the Numbers
- Kendric Davis (Sydney Kings) starred with 27 points, six rebounds, seven assists and two steals in 39 minutes.
- Bryce Cotton (Adelaide 36ers) scored 25 points, and had six rebounds, nine assists and four steals in 45 minutes.
What Happened
The Kings established early momentum, taking a 23-29 lead after the first quarter behind strong offensive output. Adelaide responded in the second period, outscoring Sydney 27-20 to level proceedings at 43-49 at halftime.
The third quarter proved pivotal for Sydney's championship aspirations. The Kings dominated proceedings with a stellar 23-nine scoring advantage, extending their lead to 66-58 entering the final period. Adelaide's lacklustre nine-point third quarter performance left them facing an uphill battle.
Adelaide mounted a determined fourth-quarter comeback, outscoring the Kings 20-19 to force overtime at 85-85. The 36ers' resilience in regulation time set up a thrilling extra period that showcased both teams' competitive spirit.
In overtime, Sydney's experience proved decisive. The Kings outscored Adelaide 12-eight in the additional five minutes, with Davis and Xavier Cooks providing clutch baskets when it mattered most. Davis's efficient 10-from-25 shooting, including two triples, anchored Sydney's offensive attack throughout the contest.
Cooks delivered an outstanding performance alongside Davis, recording 27 points on exceptional 12-from-19 shooting from the field. His four blocks provided crucial defensive stops, while his 63% field goal percentage demonstrated remarkable efficiency. The Kings' dual scoring threats proved too much for Adelaide's defensive schemes.
Cotton's valiant effort nearly carried Adelaide to victory. The dynamic guard's 25 points, nine assists and four steals showcased his complete skill set, but his 42% field goal shooting wasn't quite enough to overcome Sydney's balanced attack. Flynn Cameron added 15 points on efficient 60% shooting, connecting on three triples.
The Kings' superior field goal percentage proved decisive. Sydney shot 47% from the field compared to Adelaide's 41%, while both teams struggled from downtown. The 36ers connected on 36% of their three-point attempts (10-from-28) compared to Sydney's disappointing 28% (seven-from-25) from deep.
Adelaide dominated the boards with 53 rebounds to Sydney's 44, led by Zylan Cheatham's 13-rebound effort. However, the Kings' ability to control the extra period ultimately secured the hard-fought victory in front of 4154 fans.
.jpg)
