The Brisbane Bullets defied the odds last week to almost pull off two stirring wins and now return home this Saturday night to play host to the South East Melbourne Phoenix.
The Bullets were up against it last week playing two games in the space of three days on opposite sides of the country and in the continued absence of Sam McDaniel, Mitch Norton and departed import Javon Freeman-Liberty.
However, Brisbane produced two strong performances firstly for a brilliant 110-93 victory in Perth on Wednesday night before having the super- quick turnaround to host the undefeated Melbourne United on Friday.
Despite losing Alex Ducas to an ankle injury early in the game, the Bullets came back from a 20-point deficit in the fourth quarter to be within three thanks to a spectacular performance from former MVP Jaylen Adams.
He scored 20 of his 29 points for his best game as a Bullet in the fourth quarter and even though Melbourne ended up winning the game 95-86, it was a strong showing from Brisbane in front of their home fans given all the circumstances.
The Bullets had just won in Perth and then less than 48 hours later hosted a fresh and undefeated United, and despite picking up another injury, those two games in three days will give them great heart heading into another two games in 72 hours.
Brisbane will play on the road to the New Zealand Breakers on Thursday before returning to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre to host South East Melbourne on Saturday night.
Bullets coach Stu Lash couldn’t be prouder of his coaching staff and playing group despite whatever outside opinions are saying.
“A lot of it is a credit to the players and the staff with what we’re doing here every day, and for people to continue to question that on the outside that aren’t here, I know there’s a narrative out there,” Lash said.
“Our guys come to work every day with the right attitude, the right effort and there’s a total buy-in with what we’re doing.
“For certain people to question our culture, you don’t even know what the culture is unless you’re with us every day. Culture’s not a thing you see, it’s a thing you feel and I know what these guys are about.
“You don’t give that kind of effort if you’re not all-in but we’ve probably had two bad quarters this season so I challenge anyone on that and I believe in what we’re doing, and I know our guys do.”
NBL SEASON WEEK 6
Brisbane Bullets v South East Melbourne Phoenix, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Saturday, October 25, 4.30pm
Tickets available from Ticketek
