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NBL Finals: Rivalry Ignites on Court
20 Mar
Summary
- The 2025-26 NBL Finals feature an unprecedented matchup.
- Star guard Kendric Davis's exit from Adelaide fueled this rivalry.
- The finals series culminates a year of on-court and off-court drama.
The 2025-26 National Basketball League (NBL) Finals will witness a historic confrontation, as two formidable teams vie for the championship in a best-of-five series. This championship matchup is the first in league history between these particular clubs.
The intense rivalry has been brewing for the past 12 months, significantly fueled by off-court friction involving star guard Kendric Davis and the Adelaide 36ers. Davis, who enjoyed a stellar debut season with Adelaide averaging 25.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 8.0 assists, found himself in several contentious situations.
Following his departure from Adelaide, Davis joined the Sydney Kings. His return to Adelaide was met with hostility, but he led Sydney to a decisive victory. The rivalry has also seen public exchanges, including between former 36ers import Montrezl Harrell and Davis, and later comments from Sydney assistant coach Andrew Bogut that drew a response from 36ers owner Grant Kelley.
The MVP race itself became a focal point, with Davis and Bryce Cotton exchanging the award and engaging in public debate over voting controversies. Despite these disputes, Davis has emphasized his focus on winning the championship, deeming it the ultimate prize. Game 1 of the finals series is scheduled for tomorrow, March 21, at 7 PM AEDT.
