Andrew Bogut has officially joined Brian Goorjian’s coaching staff at the Sydney Kings, adding his impressive pedigree to the quest for National Basketball League (NBL) glory. The announcement was made on March 12, 2025, as Bogut steps away from retirement to take on this pivotal role with the club he partly owns.
Bogut, who is renowned for his storied NBA career, was selected as the No. 1 pick of the 2005 draft and enjoyed 14 successful years playing at the highest level of basketball. He secured an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors during the 2015 season and represented Australia as part of the national team during three Olympic Games.
Goorjian, who has won six NBL titles as head coach, expressed his enthusiasm over Bogut's addition, stating, "Andrew has a blue-chip pedigree. His knowledge of the game is elite, and I know he will be a very valuable addition to our coaching staff." Goorjian emphasized the significance of Bogut's past experiences, adding, "I am excited and feel fortunate to have someone of his caliber by my side. This will be a huge season for the Kings."
Following his retirement from professional play in 2020, Bogut joined the Kings' ownership group the following year. Reflecting on his new role, he stated, "Being away from the game for five years, the itch to get back on the court was growing stronger with time. I'm honored to step onto this position and work alongside Brian. Coaching is something I'm passionate about, and I can't wait to help drive this team forward."
The Kings experienced challenges during the latest season, finishing fifth out of ten teams. They were knocked out early by the Adelaide 36ers during the play-in tournament, leaving fans and management eager for improvement. Bogut’s wealth of experience and strategic insight could be pivotal as the team seeks to reclaim their spot at the top of the NBL.
Luc Longley, another Australian basketball legend and part of the Kings' Hoops Capital ownership group, echoed the excitement surrounding Bogut's new role. He noted, "His experience at the highest levels of basketball, combined with his passion for coaching, will bring a fresh dynamic to the Kings. I'm excited to see how Brian and Andrew build the team next season." Longley’s support underlines the high expectations surrounding Bogut’s transition from player to coach.
With the Kings’ aspirations to bring home the championship, Goorjian and Bogut's collaboration begins at a time when innovation and strategy will be key. The next season promises to be transformative as the Kings aim to recapture their glory and secure their place as contenders within the NBL.
Fans of the Kings and Australian basketball can look forward to following this exciting chapter as Bogut returns to the court, this time from the sidelines, helping sculpt the future of the Kings under Goorjian's seasoned hand.