Dech embraces ‘next man up’ focus

Adelaide 36ers shooting guard Sunday Dech says the team has embraced the ‘next man up’ mentality as his side looks to bounce back against South East Melbourne on Sunday.

Dech, who came in early during Friday night’s 99-70 loss to New Zealand at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, says the new-look roster is still working out their chemistry.

“We are a deep team and a talented team, we put in the work weekly and daily at practice and when your number is called you have to be ready,” Dech said.

“Our goal is to play finals and play for a championship and that’s that next man up mentality.

“We got the team to do it on any given night, anyone can step up.”

Dech praised big man Kai Sotto, who had a team-high 16 points and seven rebounds against the Breakers, and his attitude during his second year in the NBL.

“I think Kai did a fantastic job tonight coming in and impacting the game,” Dech said.

“I think that is everyone’s attitude and the guys are happy for the next man to step in.”

Adelaide face a red-hot Phoenix side, fresh off a 91-90 win against the Wildcats in Perth, at John Cain Arena and must rebound from Friday night’s defeat on Brett Maher Court.

“This is our fourth game, we have a lot of games to play and it’s early days, it’s a bump in the road,” Dech said.

“Obviously we wanted to play better at home and in front of our fans but that’s the beauty of the NBL, games come quick.

“We have to turn our focus to Phoenix, because that is another opportunity to play and to get better and build on our chemistry.

“We will be better for this loss on Sunday.”