Bruton's new focus after opening win

Adelaide 36ers coach CJ Bruton says his side will focus on fixing their starts and offensive rebounding after Friday night’s 84-76 triumph over South East Melbourne Phoenix at the NBL Blitz in Darwin.

Even after building a 20-point lead midway through the third quarter, Adelaide started on the back foot, giving up a number of extra possessions to the Phoenix in the first half.

“The way we start needs some improving and working on,” Bruton said.

“But I was pleased with how we fought back and we got to a level of play was something I can vision for the future.

“The way we shared the ball and played with some speed and got after it on the defensive end of the floor.”

The Phoenix hauled down 21 offensive rebounds, which concerned Bruton as his side had a distinct size advantage over their opponents.

“I look at the size of our team and I said pre-game ‘we need to rebound, just put a body on them’, and we didn’t set that on fire,” Bruton said.

“This is something we need to drill in from now, we are playing NBA teams soon and then we are back into the season.

“While it was alarming against a team of that size, I expect us to improve on that greatly in the next game.”

Adelaide’s next assignment at the NBL Blitz will be reigning NBL22 Grand Finalists Tasmania JackJumpers on Monday from 5pm.

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