The Brisbane Bullets emphatically stamped their authority on the NBL with back-to-back victories, perfectly honouring Heritage Round celebrations. In Bullets vs 36ers, Brisbane overwhelmed Adelaide 102–83 in front of their 1985 championship heroes and NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin.
They then travelled to Melbourne to upset league leaders United 122–114 in a high-scoring spectacle.
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Prather sets the tone in Bandits vs 36ers
Casey Prather’s standout performance against Adelaide set the stage for a memorable weekend of basketball. The dynamic forward scored a season-best 33 points on an extraordinary 14/17 shooting, including 4/5 from beyond the arc. Tyrell Harrison added 19 points and 18 rebounds, and together the duo combined for 29 points on perfect 12/12 shooting in the opening quarter alone.
Brisbane fans at the Entertainment Centre were treated to a complete team effort. Captain Mitch Norton contributed 17 points and five assists, while Tohi Smith-Milner and James Batemon also reached double figures, ensuring the Bullets controlled the game from start to finish.
Melbourne breakthrough signals new era
Building on their Adelaide triumph, the Bullets carried their confidence into Melbourne and ended a 12-game losing streak against United with a stunning 122–114 victory. Shooting an impressive 64 percent from the field, Brisbane delivered their most complete performance of the season.
Four starters reached the 25-point mark, showcasing the team’s offensive depth. Casey Prather and Keandre Cook led with 27 points each, while James Batemon and Tyrell Harrison both added 25 points, demonstrating the versatility of Brisbane’s roster.
Heritage Round magic
The weekend encapsulated Heritage Round magic, blending past glories with a promising future. NBA legend George “The Iceman” Gervin and members of the Bullets’ 1985 championship team, including icons Cal Bruton and Leroy Loggins, brought an extra layer of significance to the celebrations.
The weekend wasn’t just about honouring history—it marked the beginning of a new chapter with GameAbove Sports joining the ownership group, promising a brighter future for the franchise.
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The Bullets now shift their focus to Thursday’s home clash against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, riding high on the momentum of two of their most significant wins this season. With the team firing on all cylinders and the spirit of Heritage Round still alive, Brisbane has sent a clear message to the rest of the NBL: they are a force to be reckoned with.
Published 09-December-2024
Match preview published on 02-December-2024.
Bullets vs 36ers: Playoff Pressure Mounts as Brisbane Eye Adelaide Clash
The Brisbane Bullets approach a demanding stretch in their NBL campaign, preparing for a critical double-header against the Adelaide 36ers and Melbourne United. Bullets vs 36ers tip off 6:30 p.m. on Friday, 6 December, at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Afterwards, the Bullets will travel to John Cain Arena for a showdown against league-leaders Melbourne United on Sunday, 8 December at 1:30 p.m.
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Perth wake-up call
The Bullets’ recent trip to RAC Arena served as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NBL. Just two weeks after their commanding home victory over Perth, where James Batemon exploded for 51 points, a depleted Brisbane squad faced a stark reality on the road.
Missing five key rotation players—Tyrell Harrison (illness), Jarred Bairstow (ankle), Tohi Smith-Milner (concussion), Josh Bannan (ankle), and Deng Adel (broken hand)—the Bullets struggled to contain the Wildcats, who shot an impressive 55% from the field.
Despite the challenging circumstances, several Bullets players showed encouraging signs. Casey Prather shone against his former team, delivering 31 points on highly efficient 11/15 shooting.
Additionally, 18-year-old Next Star Rocco Zikarsky made the most of his first starting opportunity, recording 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks in a performance that showcased his immense potential.
Head coach Justin Schueller was optimistic about his team’s younger players stepping up. “I’m proud of our young guys who came in and just gave us something as in their effort and energy,” Schueller said, highlighting the contributions of Josh Kunen, Kye Savage, and Tristan Devers.
Bullets vs 36ers
Friday’s home clash against the sixth-placed 36ers (6–6) looms as a must-win encounter, with both teams vying for a coveted play-in spot. The challenge intensifies on Saturday when the Bullets travel to John Cain Arena to face league-leaders Melbourne United (11–4), who previously dominated Brisbane 120–103 in Round 8.
Read: The James Batemon Effect: Brisbane Bullet’s Winning Formula
For now, the spotlight is on Brisbane’s critical home clash against Adelaide. With only two wins dividing the teams in the battle for the final play-in spot, this matchup carries significant weight for the Bullets’ playoff aspirations.
