Photo: Brisbane Bullets

The Brisbane Bullets took to the floor for the opening game of their pre-season campaign on Thursday night, and their clash with California Baptist University quickly became the Rocco Zikarsky show.

The Bullets ran out as 27-point winners in a game that was marred by poor three-point shooting from both sides.

Despite the game falling so early into pre-season, both sides hit the floor with pace and physicality, with new signings Mitch Norton and Sam McDaniel eager to impress by diving on loose balls early in the first term, as CBU looked to break a full-court press.

Enter Next Star Rocco Zikarsky.

The 17-year-old NBA Global Academy scholarship holder proved too big and too strong for the defence, and made an immediate impact in front of the 1,600 fans in attendance.

Zikarsky did what he pleased in the low post and added an immediate shot-blocking presence on Brisbane’s interior, alongside fellow young star Josh Bannan.

He ended the game with 23 points, eight rebounds and six blocks, from just 20 minutes of playing time.

It seemed the referee’s prerogative to let the teams play in a tough and physical contest suited Brisbane’s interior attack.

New recruit Norton had no trouble getting into the lane and finishing off heavily contested layups, while Bannan showcased the strength that made him such a highly recruited prospect ahead of NBL24.

Isaac White may not have enjoyed the level of success with his shot that he’s experienced in the recent NBL1 North season with Mackay, but the guard remained an effective influence on proceedings with 11 points, seven rebounds and five assists, while Bannan finished with 12 points and nine boards.

Despite finishing the first quarter just six points down, California Baptist’s inexperience showed against the raft of bigger, stronger bodies.

Kendal Coleman top scored for the side with ten points, while Aussie talent Hunter Goodrick finished the game with six points and 12 rebounds.

The Lancers will continue their Australian tour when they take on a depleted Melbourne United side on Saturday night.

Brisbane Bullets 75
California Baptist University 48