The only team to ever beat an NBA side in preseason
In short: In the world of professional basketball, the gap between leagues is usually a chasm. But in 2022, the Adelaide 36ers proved that local talent could bridge that divide, securing a historic victory over an NBA powerhouse that remains a unique feat in the club's storied history.
The Adelaide 36ers, the sole representatives of South Australia in the National Basketball League (NBL), have a history defined by rapid ascent and high-stakes drama. Originally entering the league in 1982 as the Adelaide City Eagles, the club rebranded to the 36ers to honor the 1836 proclamation of the Colony of South Australia. They quickly established themselves as a powerhouse, notably winning their first championship in 1986. This era was marked by the 'Invincibles' nickname, earned after the team went undefeated at home during the regular season—a first in league history.
The team's success was often steered by legendary figures like coach Ken Cole. In 1985, Cole guided the 36ers to a 20–6 record, featuring Al Green, who set a single-season scoring record of 31.0 points per game. However, the 1986 season also saw significant controversy: Cole was suspended for smoking marijuana during a road trip. In a rare show of solidarity, the players demanded his return, forcing the board to reinstate him for the playoffs, where he eventually secured the Coach of the Year award.
The 36ers' legacy is further cemented by unique milestones. They are the only NBL team to defeat an NBA team in a preseason game, beating the Phoenix Suns 134–124 on October 2, 2022. They also hold a record for a semi-final win, producing a 46–19 scoring burst in the final period of a 151–103 victory over the Newcastle Falcons in 1985. Despite these heights, the club has faced fierce rivals, including a notable 1987 upset by the Perth Wildcats, who specifically recruited players to counter the 36ers' star roster.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Adelaide 36ers
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