The 2025-26 NBL Finals are set to ignite, and at the heart of this fiery showdown lies a tale of bad blood and off-court drama. The Adelaide 36ers and star guard Kendric Davis are locked in a bitter rivalry, fueled by a series of events that have unfolded over the past year. This intense competition is not just about basketball; it's a clash of personalities, egos, and unresolved tensions. So, what sparked this feud, and how will it play out on the biggest stage? Let's delve into the story behind the scenes.
The Rising Tensions
Kendric Davis burst onto the NBL scene in his debut season, averaging an impressive 25.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game. His talent was undeniable, but it was his involvement in several flashpoints that truly captured the spotlight. One notable incident involved a locker room clash with head coach Mike Wells, where Davis stood up for a teammate during criticism. This incident set the stage for a series of events that would shape the rivalry.
The rivalry intensified when Davis crossed paths with former 36ers import Montrezl Harrell. Harrell, a former NBA Sixth Man of the Year, labeled Davis a "bitter ex" in a pre-season interview, adding fuel to the fire. The tension between the two players spilled into the public, with Davis addressing the situation on NBL Now, revealing that the 36ers had ghosted him during contract talks. This led to a falling out, with Davis eventually signing with the Sydney Kings.
The MVP Race and Public Frustration
The rivalry took an interesting turn when it came to the MVP race. For two consecutive seasons, the battle for the title effectively pitted Cotton against Davis. In the first year, Davis fell short, polling 82 votes to Cotton's 119, despite his historic production. The script flipped the following year when Davis joined the Sydney Kings, while Cotton made a high-profile move to Adelaide. Both players delivered standout seasons, but the margin tightened dramatically.
Cotton claimed his sixth MVP, edging Davis 96-94. This result sparked controversy, with Davis expressing frustration on Instagram Live, calling for changes to the voting system and taking aim at commentator Derek Rucker. His case centered around Sydney's 3-1 record over Adelaide in the regular season, where Cotton averaged just 16.3 points on 36.7% shooting, well below his usual standard. The revelation that Davis had a financial incentive in his contract tied to winning MVP added to his frustration.
Off-Court Drama and Public Statements
The rivalry extended beyond the court when Sydney assistant coach Andrew Bogut weighed in on reports of a players-only meeting within Adelaide discussing the future of coach Mike Wells. Bogut's comments sparked a response from 36ers owner Grant Kelley, who criticized Bogut for speaking publicly due to having minority shares in the Kings organization. This public back-and-forth added another layer of tension to the already heated competition.
The Finals Showdown
Now, all the tension, the rivalry, the near-misses, and the off-court drama lead to the 2025-26 NBL Finals. Game 1 of the best-of-five series tips off tomorrow, 21 March, at Qudos Bank Arena. The stage is set for an epic showdown, with everything on the line. The question remains: Will the 36ers prevail, or will the Sydney Kings emerge victorious? The answer lies on the court, but the story behind this rivalry is a fascinating one, filled with personal conflicts and professional ambitions.
In my opinion, this rivalry is a testament to the intense competition within the NBL. It showcases the fine line between talent and temperament, where emotions can run high and decisions can be influenced by personal relationships. As an expert commentator, I find it intriguing how off-court events can impact on-court performance and vice versa. This finals series is not just about basketball; it's a study in human nature and the complexities of professional sports.
