Sydney Kings forward Xavier Cooks, the 2023 NBL MVP, has received a mandatory provisional suspension following notification from Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF). This suspension, effective immediately, raises serious questions as it occurs just two days before the Kings' pivotal play-in match against the Adelaide 36ers.
Basketball Australia announced the suspension on February 11, 2025, stating, "A mandatory provisional suspension (effective immediately) has been imposed on Sydney Kings player Xavier Cooks following notification to him by Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) and potential violation of the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy (ANADP). No other comments will be made at this time." This announcement has undeniably shaken the team and the league, as Cooks is not only a standout player but also one of the leading figures of the Kings.
Cooks, 29, had been instrumental to the Kings' success, contributing significantly to their championships both in 2022 and 2023. His accolades include being named the Grand Final MVP in 2022 and securing his place on the All-NBL Second Team this season. Throughout the regular season of 2024-25, he averaged 15.4 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his skills on the court.
The suspension adds tension to the Kings' playoff efforts, which are at stake against the 36ers. The match, set for Thursday night, holds immense importance for the franchise, and Cooks' absence may critically diminish their chances of advancing. Coach Brian Goorjian had earlier acknowledged the unexpected nature of Cooks’ absence during the final regular-season game but was careful to respect his player's privacy, saying, "Just respecting his privacy right now."
Cooks' return to the Kings was celebrated, as he signed what was reported to be the largest contract in NBL history before the 2024-25 season. Prior to returning to the Kings, he spent time with the Washington Wizards and later joined the Chiba Jets of Japan's B League, but the chance to spotlight his talents back home held great promise.
Now, this situation casts uncertainty over his future—not only his immediate involvement with the Kings but also his reputation as he faces the possibility of more serious penalties. According to insiders, Cooks tested positive for a banned substance, leading directly to this provisional suspension, which is now progressing under the ANADP. The Kings have emphasized the need for privacy as the investigation moves forward, with no additional comments expected from the athlete or the organization at this stage.
The timing of Cooks' suspension could not be more dramatic; with the NBL finals approaching, the loss of their star player looms large over the Kings. It is difficult not to wonder how this suspension will impact the team dynamics as they prepare for their must-win game against the 36ers. Fans and analysts alike are now compelled to shift their focus from the Kings' potential glory to the ramifications of this anti-doping violation.
Despite the challenges posed by this blow, the Kings remain hopeful of making it through the finals, albeit without one of their central figures. The emotional weight of Cooks' suspension weighs heavily on the players and support staff, who must now rally together to overcome this unexpected hurdle.
Importantly, Cooks' case serves as a stark reminder of the rigorous anti-doping regulations within sports. The fervor surrounding athletic achievement is tempered by the need for fairness and integrity; every player must adhere to these rules to maintain the spirit of competition.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on the developments of this case and how it affects both Cooks personally and the Sydney Kings as they vie for NBL supremacy. The league, the team, and Cooks himself face the reality of scrutiny, consequences, and the road to recovery, both on and off the court.