“I’ve always wanted to come here”: Jenkins embraces NBL move

Sunday's blockbuster between Adelaide and South East Melbourne was long earmarked as one of the highlights of the 2026 HoopsFest in Perth.

From the competition's top-two sides locking horns, to countless intriguing matchups all over the court, Sunday's Round 17 fixture has all the makings of a classic.

Another wrinkle to the RAC Arena fixture is the expected debut of 36ers' NBA veteran John Jenkins, who was recently signed to replace the departed Troy Brown Jr.

In his 14th year as a professional basketballer, Jenkins says he's always looked at the NBL closely and is excited to finally hit the hardwood in Australia.

"I've always followed the NBL, as my college teammates, Jermaine Beal and AJ Ogilvy played here, not to mention Ian Clark is one of my best friends," Jenkins said in a recent interview with the NBL.

"I've always been kind of in-tune with what's going on and have always wanted to come here [at some stage in my career].

"My first offer [to come to the NBL] was when LaMelo Ball was here in Illawarra, and pretty much ever since then, except last year, I've got an offer [to come play here] every single summer.

"[Until now] I either chose the NBA G League or Europe, but was waiting for that chance to come here. [But when this offer] came up with Mike [Wells], who I've worked with at USA Basketball, and to play alongside Bryce [Cotton], I couldn't pass it up. It's going to be fun."

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With the 36ers sitting on top of the ladder, with a 19-5 record, Jenkins aims to fit into the team as seamlessly as he can, while bringing numerous traits he's developed from his time playing in countries such as the United States, Spain, China, Israel, France, Puerto Rico, Russia and Romania.

"As I've gotten older, I've been more efficient with doing more pick-and-rolls and coming off handoffs and being good positionally on defence," Jenkins said.

"On this team, I need to fill in some rebounding as well, but my best attribute is just figuring it out. Whatever the team needs at that time, I got to do it.

"That's where my experience around the world is going to come into play and just understanding the moment, understanding what the team needs."

In particular, Jenkins believes he can complement 36ers star and five-time MVP Cotton, who he crossed paths with in both the US and Puerto Rico.

"For me coming here, it's about making life easier for him," he said.

"When I watch the film, there's been so many traps and double teams and all that on him. The more we can spread the floor and open it up for him, the better.

"That's a big reason why I'm here along with my veteran leadership and locker room presence."

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In terms of Sunday's game itself, Jenkins says he's ready to play as many minutes as the league-leaders need him to.

"I want to play the whole game if I can, but I understand, with the jet lag and everything, they [Adelaide] want to play it smart," Jenkins said.

"I'm also joining a very good team, so there's real no rush [to play big minutes right away].

"To acclimate as fast as I can is probably the best way, but whatever they decide, I'm down for.

"I'd love to play as many minutes as possible, but I also know there's a timing with everything.

"I haven't talked too much about it, but I trust coach and what he's going to do."

Sunday's fixture tips off at 2.30pm AEDT (11.30 AWST), live on ESPN and Channel 10.