'Just another game': Adelaide focused on long road ahead

As exciting as Sunday’s comeback win over the Perth Wildcats was for the Adelaide 36ers, coach Mike Wells is adamant they’re not getting ahead of themselves.

The 36ers will stay the course, eyeing prolonged success, despite now sitting on top of the ladder for the first time during the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season.

During his media availability on Thursday, Wells explained Sunday’s memorable win was part of the club’s “journey” this season.

“[It was] obviously an exciting situation,” Wells said.

“But there's been a few days and it's really just part of the journey for our team and it's now on to the next one.

“That's the mentality you have to have. Keep focussed on what's to come.”

What to come for Wells’ 36ers is a top-of-the-table clash with Melbourne United on Friday night.

In the pair’s only previous meeting, a late triple from Tyson Walker secured United with a one-point win at John Cain Arena.

Despite that, Wells played down the talk of this game meaning more than any other, as the 36ers try to exact revenge on their rivals.

“It really doesn't [mean more],” Wells said.

“It's one of 33 [games] and there's an opportunity for us to keep playing well and to keep growing.

“We did a lot of really good things in that game [against United]. They've got a just a ton of experience all the way through their roster.

“They've been in a lot of big games as a group with a lot of guys, and they found a way to win that one and you’ve got to give them credit for getting the stops in the runs and making plays at the end.

“That one hurt a little bit, just as the Perth one felt good, but it was part of our journey.

“It helped us get better, because as much as wins do one thing for your team, losses do another.”

The 36ers host United at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Friday from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.