401 days, one perfect moment

It had been 401 days between NBL appearances for Jason Spurgin, making his return in Game 1 of the Championship Series extra special.

A serious foot injury wiped out his NBL26 campaign, but his comeback delivered an instant impact.

In just a brief stint on the floor, Spurgin produced a huge block before stepping out and knocking down a big three, sending Qudos Bank Arena into raptures.

“He (Spurgin) got hurt the day I got here and I was kind of sad because I know the work he put in,” teammate Kendric Davis said post-game.

“He battled injuries throughout the year … we’ve been through adversity and just to see him back on the court, I’m happy for him and I’m happy for everybody.”

The 24-year-old featured in eight games during NBL25 before a pre-season injury brought his momentum to a halt.

He later underwent surgery in late August as part of his recovery.

“It’s amazing to see. I haven’t been here that long and I was just so excited for him,” Torrey Craig said.

“Just seeing the reaction from the guys I know it meant a lot to him.

“Those injuries, those long journeys … moments like that, it makes it worth it.

“I hope it’s something he remembers and he knows we’re supporting him 100 per cent.”

Tim Soares said a moment like that, where the entire Kings’ beach reacted with sheer pride highlighted how close-knit the group is.

“I think it’s everybody’s mentality and the ability to be happy for one another, and everybody is taken care of so it’s just that brotherhood that we have,” he added.

Sydney stormed to a 44-point Game 1 victory and will now head to Adelaide for Game 2 on Friday night at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.