The Sydney Kings head into ‘The Jungle’ tonight where the Wildcats will undoubtedly welcome them with fun and games.
But Perth has been far from a paradise city for the Kings, who’ve been hit by the so-called shooters’ curse inside the Wildcats’ arena like everyone else.
Last time the two clubs met there, Perth mauled the Sydneysiders 83-56.
In fact, Sydney hasn’t won on the west coast since early 2008, according to NBL.com.au.
This will be on the minds of Shane Heal’s Kings, despite the fact most of the current group had nothing to do with that dry spell.
It’s a new reign for the Purple and Gold, and while every man and his, er, cat, has Perth winning this game, I’m not so sure.
Here are a few reasons why:
1. Sydney is bigger
Size doesn’t always matter, especially if you’re royalty and can trade on social status alone. Unfortunately Sydney’s basketball royals haven’t ruled of late, though if their first game is anything to go by, big things are in store.
The Kings have a few large units to be sure, including AJ Ogilvy, who dominated the interior against Melbourne last Sunday with a double-double.
Tom Garlepp and Brad Hill are no small tasks either.
Without Matt Knight in Perth’s line-up and the less experienced Tom Jervis having to fill the void, I can’t see how the Cats compete on the boards.
2. More versatile scoring
I realise everyone is taken by James Ennis. The star contractor from the Miami Heat could be the most exciting player the league has seen in years.
But as high as Ennis soars, as smoothly as he dribbles and as deftly as he hits the three, he can’t do it alone. And that goes doubly if he gets into foul trouble again.
Now I’m not saying Perth is short on scoring because if you’ve seen Shawn Redhage, then you know the Wildcat forward is not only a versatile scorer but a poised one. He showed that last week when he coolly dispatched Adelaide in the final minute.
Yet the Kings boast just the artillery to hush 10,000 fans inside the haze of Perth’s home gym, including Ogilvy’s inside hook, Jesse Sanders’ knifing drives and a lively three ball from veteran James Harvey. Harvey had 19 points in just over 19 minutes against the Tigers.
If all else fails, Sydney’s Harlequins can single-handedly ratchet up the score in any contest. I hope there’s room on the plane.
3. Deeper bench
When one of your best attacking players comes off the bench, your second five can quickly look better.
Ben Madgen is one of the NBL’s great shooters when he heats up and I expect him to step onto the floor simmering Friday night.
Throw in Hill and Harvey and Perth’s back-ups will be dreaming about a catnap come the second quarter.
Nathan of Perth
Guest
So as it turns out they couldn't :)
Kris Swales
Expert
Well you were almost right, but Kings just couldn't find the clutch plays when it was required. In two minds about Sanders after that effort, he seems a little down on pace and tried to do too much himself in that final quarter. Do you get the feeling Madgen has hardly trained with the new players? He was waiting out wide where he did so much damage last season and the ball just wouldn't come his way. He looks really timid as well, maybe he's better off with some more recovery time. Anyway, Ogilvy looks like the man for the Kings, Hill has also impressed. But last night was the James Ennis show - those three slams down the stretch, oh boy!
JP
Guest
You're right of course Michael, but I'm willing to speculate on this one! I really like the way Sydney handled the Tigers. Perth is another challenge for sure, especially given Ennis' talent. But there are some match up issues for the Cats, mostly under the hoop. The Perth home court is a major hurdle for Sydney I agree. If they hit the lead early and quiten the crowd, anything is possible. That will require some sharp outside shooting I believe.
The Plainsman
Guest
Hi All I am with Michael on this one. I have tipped the Wildcats because of the home advantage plus the scoring ability of Ennis and the skills of Martin. While AJ was great for the Kings in game one but I think that Redhage, Wagstaff, Ennis and Martin at home may prove too much. Also keep an eye out for Drake U'U. He had an impressive 2nd quarter against Adelaide and will provide Martin with an excellent back up guard as he matures. As a naked plug my latest Roar piece should be posted today and I have tipped Wildcats, Breakers (2 from 2 on the road), Adelaide and Melbourne. One question - does anyone have access to TV viewer numbers for the NBL on ONE and TEN? It would be interesting to see what penetration the NBL is achieving this season. Have a great weekend
Michael DiFabrizio
Expert
Interesting theory JP, good article. I feel like Jervis has been doing surprisingly well in Knight's absence, but you're right the Kings should be expected to win the boards. On the versatility, Beal seems to be slipping under the radar a bit, he looked good last week. You could be right but it'd take a brave man to tip against the Wildcats at home just now.
JP Pelosi
Expert
Kris I know, it's not going to be easy to stick with Perth. They are the favourites and should be. But I just have a hunch that if Sydney can out rebound them and muscle up to the likes of Ennis and Beal, they're in with a chance. I also really liked Sanders in round one. The guy can play. If he can help Carmouche and Madgen get going, it'll be a close one.
JP Pelosi
Expert
Good on you cliffclavin, appreciate the feedback. I agree. Ennis was great but I'm not wholly convinced Perth is as strong. We will see.
Kris Swales
Expert
Love your optimism JP, but on recent form you'd be happy if the Kings got within 10! There was a lot to like last week though, particularly the way Sanders took charge and ran the point, but they'll need a couple of players to be on fire from start to finish to take this one.
cliffclavin
Guest
Great article JP. Hoping ogilvy has a big year and really dominates ... I love watching the big fellas. Despite ennis, the cats did not look as hot last week as in previous seasons but as a tigers fan I hope sydney lose.... Oh and keep these basketball articles coming ... the roar needs them. This one was a fun read