Davis Fuels Adelaide–Sydney Rivalry with Claims of Poor Treatment
SYDNEY – The animosity between the Adelaide 36ers and Sydney Kings has intensified, with Kings guard Kendric Davis publicly detailing his dissatisfaction with his departure from Adelaide. The 26-year-old alleges he was “treated bad” by the 36ers before signing with Sydney, accusations the club has strongly denied.
“I don’t like how I was treated in Adelaide,” Davis said in a recent interview on NBL Overtime, which aired Monday night on ESPN. “it’s no secret, like I felt like I was treated bad. And when they wanted to treat me good, it was because of the mark I made. So yeah, I got extra spice for that. I hate some things that went on in Adelaide.”
The first on-court clash between Davis and his former team is scheduled for October 11, when the Kings travel to Adelaide.
NBL legend Derek Rucker believes Davis will be highly motivated in that matchup, particularly against Kings star Bryce Cotton.”I think there might be a little bit of a chip on his shoulder… he’s trying to get to the NBA also,” Rucker said.”When you look at how Adelaide have gone about their off season going out and getting Bryce Cotton – that’s a little bit of a slap in the face. When a big-time player leaves, you kind of hate to see them sign one of the best players in NBL history.”
The 36ers have previously issued a statement defending their handling of contract negotiations with Davis and his representatives, stating they “at all times, acted in good faith… initiating contract discussions and remaining in constant communication with an intention to have him re-sign with the club.”
