Sydney Kings vs Brisbane Bullets Tips | NBL26 R17

Tip-off is scheduled for 9:30pm AEDT at RAC Arena, with the Kings aiming to put this contest to bed early against a Brisbane side staring down another long night. With Sydney rolling despite key injuries and Brisbane struggling to keep pace offensively, this matchup strongly favours the Kings.

Competition: NBL26 – Round 17

Match: Sydney Kings vs Brisbane Bullets

Date: Thursday, 15 January 2026

Tip-off: 9:30 PM AEDT

Venue: RAC Arena, Perth

Rather than laying the full-game number, the first-half line presents better value. Sydney are expected to come out aggressively and apply early scoreboard pressure, while Brisbane have repeatedly started games slowly. The Kings have scored 95+ points in seven of their last eight games and possess enough depth to establish control early before potentially easing late. Expect Sydney to build a comfortable halftime margin.

With Xavier Cooks sidelined, Jaylin Galloway’s role has expanded significantly — and he has thrived. Galloway logged 32 minutes against Melbourne, well above his season average, and delivered 27 points. He has averaged 21.5 points across his last two games and should again see high usage against a Brisbane defence that struggles to contain athletic wings.

Galloway’s increased minutes have also translated into strong rebounding numbers. He has collected five or more rebounds in three of his last four games, including a career-high seven recently. Brisbane rank near the bottom of the league in rebounding, making this a strong complementary prop to his scoring line.

Despite Brisbane’s struggles, Hunter Maldonado has been a bright spot since joining the Bullets. He has scored at least 15 points in each of his appearances for the club and continues to shoulder a heavy offensive load. Even if Brisbane fall behind, Maldonado should see enough usage to clear his scoring line.