Cleveland stepping up in big moments

Adelaide 36ers import forward Antonius Cleveland knew he had to take his game to a new level.

The 198cm swingman has done that since the FIBA World Cup break and stood up when it mattered most during Friday night’s 78-75 win against Cairns Taipans at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

Cleveland, who scored a team-high 23 points, grabbed eight rebounds and dished four assists, sparked the home side in the second half with a number of key baskets.

“Craig (Randall II) was leading the league in scoring, so when that is removed you have to step up,” Cleveland said.

The reigning NBL Defensive Player of the Year did an outstanding job on DJ Hogg, limiting the Cairns Taipans import forward to just seven points.

“I’m just trying to find my way, staying out of foul trouble, staying on the court a little longer,” Cleveland said.

Cleveland gave Adelaide only their third lead of the match when he hauled in an offensive rebound and finished under the hoop to give the 36ers a 75-73 advantage with 55 seconds remaining.

“I’m just trying to pick it up and stay consistent,” he said.