Noi drops first 30-piece in Kings grinding win

• Kings' Kuoat Noi has first +30-point game in NBL career
• Sydney jumps to third with 15-10 record
• Depleted Tasmania JackJumpers from to 12-13 in sixth

It was an arm wrestle from wire to wire with both the Sydney Kings and Tasmania JackJumpers grinding it out on both ends of the floor at Qudos Bank Arena in Round 17 of NBL25 at Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Kouat Noi's career-best 32-point performance propelled the Sydney Kings to a hard-fought 88-77 victory against the Tasmania JackJumpers. The final score didn't really reflect the toughness of the ball game.

The Kings' reserves stepped up in a crucial moment, delivering an 18-4 run in the closing minutes to secure the win and solidify their position in the NBL playoff race.

The match unfolded as a defensive slugfest, with both teams struggling to find their offensive rhythm early on. Sydney held a narrow 16-15 lead after the first quarter, with both sides shooting below 35% from the field.

The grind continued through the second quarter, as the Kings managed to maintain a slim 38-34 advantage heading into halftime.

Tasmania, despite missing key players Sean Macdonald, Will Magnay, and Majok Deng, showed their trademark grit and determination.

The JackJumpers briefly took the lead in the third quarter, sparked by Jordon Crawford's inspired play during a 13-3 run. However, Noi's explosive 15-point outburst in the same period kept Sydney afloat, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter.

The fourth quarter saw both teams trading blows from beyond the arc. Izayah Le'afa and Jaylen Adams knocked down crucial three-pointers for the Kings, while Reuben Te Rangi, Jack Steindl, Ian Hummer, and Milton Doyle responded in kind for Tasmania. With the game hanging in the balance, Sydney's depth and home-court advantage proved decisive as they closed out the contest with a dominant 18-4 run.

Noi's remarkable efficiency stood out in the box score, as he connected on 18 of 19 free throw attempts en route to his 32 points. The Kings' ability to capitalise on Tasmania's mistakes was equally crucial, converting 17 JackJumpers turnovers into 24 points. Sydney's offensive rebounding prowess also played a significant role, with 14 offensive boards leading to 15 second-chance points.

While Noi stole the spotlight, Sydney's usual suspects had relatively quiet outings. Jaylen Adams struggled with his shot, finishing with 17 points on 6-from-19 shooting, though he did add six assists. Xavier Cooks contributed 10 points and eight rebounds, while Cam Oliver chipped in 12 points and eight boards.

For Tasmania, Milton Doyle led the way with 21 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Jordon Crawford added 17 points and four assists, while Ian Hummer contributed 11 points and four rebounds in the losing effort. But he took a poor shot with plenty of time left on the shot clock with more than 30 seconds left that killed any chance of a Tasmania comeback.

The victory moves the Sydney Kings into third place in the NBL standings with a 15-10 record, strengthening their position in the playoff race. Meanwhile, the JackJumpers slip to 12-13, clinging to the sixth and final playoff spot.