NBL: Sydney Kings Surge Into Finals With Dominant Victories

The Sydney Kings have arrived. Two dominant victories in recent rounds. Dismantled the Illawarra Hawks 120-94 on February 13. Followed up with a comprehensive 102-84 defeat of the Perth Wildcats on February 15. The Kings are riding a wave of momentum as the 2025-26 NBL season enters its decisive stretch with Round 22 ongoing.

Kings Hit Their Stride

The Kings’ 120-94 demolition of the Illawarra Hawks was a statement performance. Sydney’s offence was in scintillating form, reaching the 120-point mark with an efficiency that left the Hawks unable to keep pace. The Kings controlled the tempo from the outset, building an early lead and never allowing Illawarra back into the contest. The 26-point margin was a fair reflection of Sydney’s dominance on the night.

Two days later, the Kings produced another impressive display, this time dismantling the Perth Wildcats 102-84. The 18-point victory was built on stifling defence and clinical execution in transition, with Sydney proving too strong for a Wildcats outfit that had no answers to the Kings’ intensity. The back-to-back wins have transformed Sydney’s season outlook, positioning them firmly in the mix for a finals berth.

Hawks Split a Busy Week

The Illawarra Hawks had a mixed week of results. Despite their loss to the Kings, the Hawks bounced back with a thrilling 100-99 victory over the Adelaide 36ers, winning by the narrowest of margins in a contest that went down to the final seconds. They then produced a dominant 103-70 victory over the Tasmania JackJumpers, a 33-point blowout that showcased their attacking firepower when firing on all cylinders.

The Hawks’ ability to respond after the Kings loss speaks to the resilience of their squad, though the inconsistency of their performances remains a concern as they look to lock down their own finals position.

Melbourne United Stumble

Melbourne United suffered a setback with a 76-87 loss to the Adelaide 36ers, a result that dents their finals aspirations and hands the 36ers a valuable win. United’s scoring output of 76 points was well below their season average, suggesting an off night that the club will be keen to put behind them quickly.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix also delivered a strong performance during the round, recording a 120-104 victory over the Tasmania JackJumpers. The Phoenix’s offensive output matched that of the Kings at the top of the scoring charts, further highlighting the quality and entertainment value of the NBL this season.

Round 22 and Beyond

With Round 22 running from February 18 to 20, the NBL season is approaching its climax. The race for finals positions remains tight, with several clubs separated by just a game or two on the ladder. The Kings’ surge in form has added another genuine contender to the mix, ensuring the final rounds of the regular season will be fiercely contested.

Follow all NBL action on the NBL Hub.

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LF — Breaking news correspondent, australiafootball.com