Davis embraces new defensive challenge

Adelaide 36ers import point guard Kendric Davis said a film session with head coach Mike Wells has sparked his defensive mindset.

After leading the 36ers with a game-high 32 points in a thrilling 102-100 win against Illawarra Hawks on Saturday night, Davis said he was most impressed with his defence.

“I’m only in my second-year pro, so when coach called me out the first two games defensively by being better,” Davis said.

READ MORE

• PRESS CALL: Wells lauds 'team effort' 
• MATCH PREVIEW: Hawks battle 'another opportunity'
• TEAM SCOUT: 36ers ready for massive Hawks challenge
• Davis impact thrills Wells in big win
• Awesome Foursome star in huge home victory

“I’m a competitor, I knew I could. I went to his house, and we sat down and watched a whole game.

“I know my offense is going to come but I thought I didn’t compete the way I can defensively,

“I thought that set the tone for the group.

“Going forward, forget offense, I want to be able to compete defensively.”

Davis had a huge impact last round as the 36ers went 2-0 for the weekend, his heroics in Wollongong backing up a big game of 21 points and seven assists in last Thursday’s 93-83 home opening win against South East Melbourne.

“If we get stops and we run, everything will take care of itself,” Davis said.

“Coach said ‘I know what you can do defensively, I need you to dial in’, and that is all I needed to hear.

“He called me out, and I accepted the challenge.”

Davis will get his second challenge against NBL22 MVP Jaylen Adams when Sydney Kings come to town this Friday night.

“I don’t want to let my brothers down,” Davis said.

“As long as I compete, we will live with the results.”