'Legacy and prize money': 36ers' Ignite Cup Final ambition

With the 21-game NBL Ignite Cup schedule now in the books, all eyes will be on February 22’s Final between Adelaide and New Zealand.

The former booked their ticket on Wednesday night by defeating Brisbane by 33 points at the Gold Coast Sport and Leisure Centre.

Following the full-time siren, three-time NBL champion Casey Prather sang the praises of Mike Wells’ side on a special episode of NBL Now.

“These guys [Adelaide] are professionals, and every time you step on the court and lace them up, their objective is to win the game [which they did tonight],” Prather said on NBL Now.

“These guys have worked hard all season [to be in this season of reaching the Final] and now are in a great position to add to Adelaide’s club legacy.”

One player that’s determined to add to that legacy Prather touched on is Zylan Cheatham, who had six points, seven rebounds, six assists and one steal on Wednesday.

“[To make the Final] feels really good, and it’s always nice to have little rewards throughout the season,” Cheatham said.

“The season goes so long, so we’re really happy that we’ve put ourselves in this position [to win silverware].

“[But we know it’s not going to be easier] as New Zealand really pushed us to the limits last game. They’re a talented team, and it’s always a battle.

“Unfortunately, Sam Mennenga got hurt versus us, and he’s just one of the injuries they’re battling, but we don't take any opponent lightly.

“We know how this league goes. It's a high-level league, and we just got to get it done.”

Echoing Cheatham’s sentiments were rising star Flynn Cameron, who added 16 points and 3 dimes in the victory, saying he’s extremely excited for Sunday, February 22’s Final.

“I’m definitely excited [for the Final]. It's even more special coming back to the Gold Coast, as that's where I grew up,” Cameron said.

“Being able to play in front of the family but also play for some money [is very exciting].”

As the Tall Blacks international touches on, the 36ers and Breakers will lock horns for a 75 per cent share of the $400,000 reward on offer, the largest prize pool in NBL history.

“Once you put money on the line, everyone's going to talk [about the Ignite Cup]. There’s no better and bigger motivator than money,” said 36ers General Manager of Basketball Operations Matt Weston.

“The Ignite Cup is a great concept, and it's going to be a fantastic Final. We’re all really looking forward to it.

“[If we were to be lucky enough to win] we’d share the money evenly across everyone, ensuring our younger players get paid too.”

The inaugural Final will tip off at 4.30pm AEDT on Sunday, February 22, live on ESPN.