Bruton pleased to be back playing

Adelaide 36ers coach CJ Bruton said his side showed glimpses in Friday night’s loss to the Perth Wildcats in their first pre-season hit out.

Bruton said it was good to finally get back out on the court following the off-season and expects big things from all sides in NBL23.

“It was good to play in front of crowds again and see the boys on the floor…it was exciting,” he said.

“It’ll be an exciting season ahead.”

The 36ers trailed by six at the end of the first before clawing their way back to a lead in the second quarter, which Bruton was pleased with.

“I thought the boys shared the ball, defensively we were really solid,” he said.

“We kept pressure on the ring, got to the free throw ring, got some great shots which led to a good quarter.”

The 36ers will again play the Wildcats on Sunday and Bruton said he wants improvements in some areas.

“We didn’t learn too much about Perth, everyone has a lot of players to keep coming in and out,” he said.

“They’re like every team in the competition, everyone has talent, everyone can win it and whilst a pre-season game they showed some glimpses like we did.

“We want to come out with a better intensity to start the game, keep it simple.

“Defensively we want to be solid.”