Can the Cavaliers truly contend?

Feature image via: Photography-Jodie Rawiri

Since their introduction to the NBL1 South in 2022, the men’s Casey Cavaliers are still yet to make the finals.

From 2022 to 2024, Casey combined for only 17 wins total. But in 2025 and over a month into the season, the Cavaliers are second on the ladder with a 5-2 record, already matching their total wins from last season.

Hyper-athlete Preston Bungei has been with the team for the past three seasons, going through the highs and lows, he told NBL1 Media what’s been the difference this season. 

“I'd say the major difference is the cohesiveness that we have on the court as a team,” Bungei said. 

“We are locked-in defensively and our rotations are clear. We were trying to adjust to every team last year, rather than making teams adjust to our defence like we are doing this year. Offensively, we move the ball, and everyone knows and plays their roles very effectively.”

With the additions of Sydney King Tyler Robertson, import Nate Roberts and former Nunawading guard Trendon Hankerson, the Cavaliers are flying into Round 6. However, they are not done yet – announcing reigning NBL1 West First-Team member and NBL forward Gorjok Gak for the remainder of the season. 

“I'm super excited to have him on board,” Bungei said. 

“From what I've seen him do in the NBL I think he'll be a major piece for us this year. He only adds to our length and size and gives us a lot of different lineup combinations moving forward.” 

Head coach Luke Kendall echoed the sentiment, stating Gak will be a game-changer for this side. 

“I believe it will add to our depth and just give us some more athleticism around the ring on both ends of the floor. When we were putting this team together, we really wanted a high-level player in this spot for us,” he said.

“What he offers both physically and playing-wise is just another piece to our puzzle. We have done our research on his character and believe he is the perfect fit. Through the conversations we have had so far, his vision aligns with what we are trying to do as an organisation and he wants to be a part of something special.”

Kendall explained that character was at the top of their scouting report when it came to recruitment, with the mix of talent and personalities being the key factor in their success thus far. 

“Everyone has bought into the team-first attitude and are constantly self-sacrificing their own game for the greater good of the team,” he said. 

“All those things I believe have been the difference in us turning the season around and playing so hard.”

Trying to contend against the likes of Knox, Mount Gambier, Ballarat, Eltham, and many more is an extremely difficult task. But the former NBL assistant coach believes his group are fit for the fight. 

“I believe we have got the right blend of character, skill and athleticism to contend with any of those teams on any given night. We have players that want to be here for the right reasons and enjoying the process and hard work it takes to be successful,” he said. 

“We are continuing to learn about each other week by week and game by game. We all look forward to welcoming Gak into the team very soon.”

The Cavaliers will host the 5-3 Pioneers on Saturday night, then take on the Falcons down in Waverley. You can watch both games live via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.