Brand new challenge awaits: Franks

Adelaide 36ers power forward Robert Franks says the key to success against New Zealand is all about playing the right brand of basketball.

The 201cm import, who is averaging 15 points and 6.5 rebounds per night so far in NBL23, said implementing a new focus during the preparation for the Freaky Friday battle against the Breakers will be key to success.

“Execute the game plan and getting back to our brand of basketball,” Franks said.

“In Sydney we played like how we want to play and trying to keep that momentum going.

“It’s early in the season but it was good to get a win on the road.

“Every win obviously matters. But it’s how we are playing, how our chemistry is what matters.”

Franks said the 36ers are preparing for a Breakers side who have been huge on the road so far in NBL23, winning three of their four matches away from home.

“The same preparation just different game plan, we got to execute different against a different opponent against a really good team in New Zealand,” Franks said.

Craig Randall II, who had a game-high 24 points including six three-pointers in the win against the Kings in Sydney, has been huge for Adelaide in the past two victories and Franks said the 193cm shooting guard is a matchwinner.

“He’s been electric for us, willing us to the last two wins,” Franks said.

“That’s what makes this team so tough to guard, you never know who’s going to be hot.

“Having a guy like Craig and AC and the game DJ had last game, it helps a guy like me that everybody comes to contribute and we are not asking me to make a miracle.

“We are so well-rounded and talented, it’s kind of being on you’re A game and try to do whatever you need to do for the team.”