Why Davis, Craig chose Sydney over overseas riches

We're halfway through the first round of the Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season and already Kendric Davis is terrorising opponents.

The reigning Championship Series MVP, who guided Sydney to their sixth NBL title in 2025-26, posted 26 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds in the Kings' 111-90 victory over Cairns.

But a second season in the Harbour City nearly didn't happen, according to CODE Sports' reporting.

American point guard Davis reportedly had multiple big overseas offers from across Asia and Europe, including a deal from a Russian club which would have seen him earn upwards of $400,000 USD (approx. $560,000 AUD) more than in Australia.

But money wasn't the motivation for Davis, choosing to pen a new two-year deal in the Harbour City and help his franchise defend their crown.

"KD passed up a lot to come back here [to] this League, with his pursuit to get back to the NBA," Brian Goorjian told CODE.

"Guys like Kendric and Torrey [Craig] had more on the table from others, but elected to come back because they loved the environment."

Although Davis and Craig's deals weren't intertwined, the 27-year-old explained that having his championship-winning teammate back in purple and gold was massive.

"It is very exciting to see Torrey return; I love him like a brother," Davis said.

"We bonded this summer, we got better [working out together], and I'm excited to go to war with him and build a stronger brotherhood with him and the rest of my teammates. The city [of Sydney] took care of me and embraced me, so I'm happy to be part of this organisation, and I wouldn't want it any other way."

Sydney next hosts NSW rivals Illawarra at Afterpay Arena on Sunday from 6pm AEST.

‍Read the full story here >> Unfinished business: Why Kendric Davis turned down big money in Asia and Europe to return to NBL champions the Sydney Kings