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The Townsville Crocodiles have recorded a scrappy come from behind win against the Sydney Kings at Qantas Credit Union Arena tonight, by just three points.
Led by an efficient 22 point, six rebound and six assist performance from Jordair Jett the Crocodiless fought back from a 10 point first quarter deficit to record the victory.
In a see sawing final quarter the critical play came with 22 seconds remaining when Luke Schenscher stole an inbound pass after the Kings called time out while up by one point.
The Crocodiles immediately pushed the ball up the court to the open Corey Maynard who calmly drained a massive three pointer, to put the Crocodiles up by two points.
The Kings had one last play to win the game but fantastic defence by Brian Conklin forced Julian Kazzouh into a long range two which he air balled following an isolation play.
Kazzouh was one of the main talking points coming out of the match after he raced to 10 quick points early in the first quarter.
The Crocodiles had no answers for his wonderful inside and outside game early, however a switch to a zone defence and Kazzouh getting into some early foul trouble saw the Crocodiles fight back.
Interestingly, the Crocodiles were able to win the points in the paint 42-34 after the Kings fell into the trap of settling for jumpers as a result of the zone defence being played.
For the Kings, Julian Kazzouh was a stand out early before losing his rhythm once getting into foul trouble while Markovic also hit some big shots.
The Kings will not be happy with their second half shot selection after shooting just 38 per cent for the game.
For the Crocodiles, Jett was an obvious stand out while Conklin and Steindl both had very impressive second halves.
Although early in the season, this game could come back to hurt the Kings later in the year, with this season looking like the closest one in memory.
In the end, a thrilling game of basketball won by a very determined and dogged Crocodiles side.
Final score:
Sydney Kings 77
Townsville Crocodiles 80
The Townsville Crocodiles are after their maiden victory of the season when they take on a strong Sydney Kings outfit at Qantas Credit Union Arena. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 7:15pm (AEST).
In Week 1 of the NBL the Kings stamped themselves as a genuine premiership threat with a clinical opening night victory over the Cairns Taipans.
Playing without the injured Josh Childress, the Kings put on a fantastic display of ‘pace and space’ basketball, recording an impressive 22 assists on 32 made field goals.
Townsville on the other hand endured a tough start to the season, losing their home opener against Melbourne United before again coming short 89-81 in a more encouraging display against the New Zealand Breakers.
Veteran Crocs centre Luke Schenscher will have his work cut out containing returning Sydney big man Julian Kazzouh, in what will be a pivotal match-up. Kazzouh was outstanding against Cairns, and the Crocodiles need to limit his presence in the paint if they are to win this one.
For the Crocodiles to get up, they need able support for reigning MVP Brian Conklin, with Jordair Jett set to shoulder some of the offensive load.
As per last week’s fixture, NBA veteran Childress remains in doubt with a lingering foot strain and will be a game-time decision. Given the Kings back up only two days later to play the dangerous Illawarra Hawks, it would be a surprise to see Childress suited up.
Prediction
Childress’ loss gives the plucky Crocodiles a chance of snatching the away win, however given the depth and class of the Kings’ roster it is hard to see anything but a comprehensive Sydney victory.
Kings by a baker’s dozen (13).
Will the Kings continue their winning start to the season against a spirited Crocodiles outfit? Join The Roar from 7:15pm (AEST) for score updates and debate in our live blog.
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