Sydney Kings vs Adelaide 36ers: Kings Win OT Thriller, Kendric Davis Seals Championship
The Sydney Kings vs Adelaide 36ers Game 5 delivered one of the greatest finishes in NBL history on April 5, 2026. We saw Sydney secure a 113-101 overtime victory, clinching the series 3-2 and lifting their sixth NBL Championship. The contest marked the first-ever overtime Game 5 in Championship Series history, adding historic weight to an already intense rivalry.
We witnessed a packed Qudos Bank Arena crowd of 18,589 fans, setting an all-time NBL attendance record. The Kings dominated overtime 18-6, proving their composure under pressure. This win also secured Sydney’s third title in five seasons, confirming their modern-era dominance. The game delivered elite performances, historic milestones, and a fitting finale to a record-breaking season.
Sydney Kings vs Adelaide 36ers Game 5 Breakdown
We saw a tightly contested regulation period before Sydney took complete control in overtime. The Kings executed efficiently, while Adelaide struggled offensively in the extra period. That 18-6 scoring run highlighted Sydney’s depth and discipline under pressure.
We also saw both teams trade momentum throughout regulation, reflecting the competitiveness of the series. Adelaide forced Game 5 with a 92-91 win on April 1, 2026, proving their resilience. However, Sydney’s ability to close strong ultimately decided the championship. This game reinforced why execution in clutch moments defines champions.
Kendric Davis vs Bryce Cotton Rivalry
We witnessed an elite duel between Kendric Davis and Bryce Cotton. Davis delivered 35 points, 14 assists, and 1 steal, earning the Larry Sengstock Medal as Grand Final MVP. Cotton matched him with 35 points and 9 assists, continuing his MVP-level consistency.
We also saw context from the regular season carry into this matchup. Cotton won his sixth MVP award on February 23, 2026, edging Davis by just 96-94 votes. That narrow margin fueled one of the best individual rivalries in recent NBL history. Davis’ playmaking brilliance, including a record for most assists in a Championship Series, ultimately gave Sydney the edge.
Key Numbers from the Championship Series
We break down the most important stats from the Sydney Kings vs Adelaide 36ers series:
- Final Game 5 score: 113-101 (OT)
- Series result: Kings win 3-2
- Overtime scoring: Sydney 18 – Adelaide 6
- Attendance: 18,589 (record)
- Davis stats: 35 pts, 14 ast
- Cotton stats: 35 pts, 9 ast
Championship Summary Table
| Category | Sydney Kings | Adelaide 36ers |
|---|---|---|
| Game 5 Score | 113 | 101 |
| Overtime Points | 18 | 6 |
| Series Wins | 3 | 2 |
| Star Player | Kendric Davis | Bryce Cotton |
| Key Stat | 14 assists | 35 points |
NBL Growth and Historic Season Impact
We saw the NBL reach new heights during the 2025-26 season. Total attendance hit 1,135,135 fans, breaking a 31-year-old record, while 55 games sold out across the season. Game 5 alone attracted over 630,000 viewers, with Finals viewership rising 33%.
We also saw legendary coaching success, as Brian Goorjian secured his seventh NBL Championship and led Sydney to a 24-9 regular-season record. These milestones show a league growing in competitiveness, popularity, and global reach.
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