In a disappointing start to 2025, the Brisbane Bullets fell short against the Sydney Kings, 91–86, at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Despite leading for most of the game in front of 7,028 passionate home fans, the Bullets couldn’t hold off Sydney’s late surge in the Bullets vs Kings round 15 matchup.
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Dominant glass work not enough
The Bullets showcased their rebounding prowess, securing a remarkable 29 offensive rebounds compared to Sydney’s eight, which led to 20 second-chance points. However, shooting efficiency proved to be the decisive factor. Brisbane converted just 35 per cent of their field goal attempts, while Sydney maintained a clinical 57 per cent shooting rate, underscoring their precision.
Josh Adams made an immediate impact in his Bullets debut, hitting three shots from beyond the arc and finishing with 11 points. Deng Adel, returning after a two-month absence, energised the crowd with his six points, including two clutch three-pointers during his 15 minutes on the court.
Brisbane fall late in Bullets vs Kings
Despite controlling the first three quarters, Brisbane couldn’t withstand Sydney’s late-game composure. A decisive six-point run gave the Kings their largest lead of seven points, which proved insurmountable despite the Bullets’ valiant efforts.
Casey Prather continued his stellar form with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while captain Mitch Norton contributed 14 points in a tireless display. The frontcourt duo of Josh Bannan and Tyrell Harrison excelled on the boards, each recording double-doubles: Bannan with 13 points and 13 rebounds, and Harrison with 12 points and 14 rebounds.
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The Bullets aim to rebound quickly as they remain at home to face the New Zealand Breakers on Wednesday night at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. With the team now sitting at 9–11, this matchup presents a crucial opportunity to return to the winner’s circle and maintain their playoff aspirations.
Published 04-January-2025
Match preview published on 31-December-2024.
Bullets vs Kings: Brisbane Signs Josh Adams to Boost Their Playoff Push
After a strong run of five wins from six games, the Brisbane Bullets stumbled during the festive season, dropping two straight matches. On Saturday, 4 January, they must regroup against the Sydney Kings to reignite their playoff push. Bullets vs Kings tip off 7:00 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
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Josh Adams joins the roster
The Brisbane Bullets have secured a game-changer just in time for the most crucial stretch of their season. Sources tell ESPN that former NBL All-Second Team guard Josh Adams has signed with the Bullets as an injury replacement for James Batemon and is expected to make his debut in one of their early January games.
Adams was a standout performer for the Tasmania JackJumpers during their inaugural 2021–22 season. The dynamic American guard averaged 16.6 points and 3.3 rebounds, playing a key role in leading Tasmania to a grand final appearance. His arrival is set to inject much-needed firepower into the injury-hit Bullets lineup.
His signing comes at a critical time for the Bullets as they aim to bounce back from consecutive losses, including Sunday’s 95–86 defeat to the in-form JackJumpers. A spirited fourth-quarter rally saw Brisbane close within six points, but they ultimately fell short of overturning a 15-point deficit, with Tasmania extending their remarkable winning streak to eight games.
Bullets vs Kings
Despite recent setbacks, the Bullets have shown resilience under head coach Justin Schueller, highlighted by their strong run before the festive season to climb up the ranks. Now sitting seventh on the ladder with a 9–10 record, Brisbane faces a pivotal clash against the fourth-placed Kings (10–9).
Adams’ addition couldn’t come at a better time for the injury-depleted squad. Key players like Rocco Zikarsky and Deng Adel remain sidelined, while Jarred Bairstow, Sam McDaniel, and James Batemon are out for the season.
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Bullets faithful are looking forward to seeing Adams link up with imports Casey Prather and Keandre Cook, who have been vital in keeping the Bullets competitive despite their challenges.
