Kings End United’s Unbeaten Run in a Classic Thriller

The Sydney Kings have ended Melbourne United’s perfect start to NBL26, claiming a statement 95–92 victory in front of a sell-out John Cain Arena on Melbourne Cup Eve.

Kendric Davis was the difference, producing a masterclass performance with 34 points, five rebounds, and three assists to steer the Kings to their most significant win of the season.

It was a fitting result for coach Brian Goorjian, who guided the last NBL team to start a season 10–0 — the Kings of 2004 — and returned to the same venue to halt Melbourne’s attempt to match that feat.

In a game thick with subplots, captain Matthew Dellavedova delivered 12 points and seven assists on his return to face his former team. Booed early, he responded with poise, hitting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc after entering the night shooting just 12 per cent from deep.

Sydney led at every break and looked in control when an 11–0 third-quarter run stretched their advantage to 12. But United refused to fold, with Tyson Walker (22 points, nine rebounds, five assists) sparking a late surge that tied the scores at 85–85 before Melbourne briefly hit the front.

The game turned again in the final minute. Jesse Edwards had the chance to give United the lead from the line but missed both free throws. Davis then calmly knocked down his own with 2.7 seconds left to make it a three-point game — and Melbourne’s last heave fell short.

Bul Kuol was outstanding on both ends for Sydney, finishing with 17 points, six rebounds, three steals and two assists while holding Chris Goulding to just 10 points on 1-of-5 shooting. Xavier Cooks added 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists in another well-rounded display.

United, now 9–1, were off their rhythm all night but still found ways to stay close behind Walker’s efficiency, Milton Doyle’s 19 points and Finn Delany’s 14.

The Kings (5–5) have now won consecutive games for the first time this season and will next host the New Zealand Breakers on Sunday. United will attempt to rebound quickly with a Wednesday night clash in Wollongong before a high-stakes Throwdown against South East Melbourne on Saturday.

Final score: Sydney Kings 95 defeated Melbourne United 92.