NBL 2023: Sydney Kings forward Xavier Cooks on track to join NBA stars in Boomers World Cup squad
Reigning NBL grand final MVP Xavier Cooks has the ability to make Australia’s World Cup squad, even with the NBA stars on deck.
Kings
Don't miss out on the headlines from Kings. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Sydney Kings star forward Xavier Cooks should walk into the Australian Boomers team for next year’s World Cup, even with NBA stars available.
That’s the opinion of Cooks’ Kings teammate Dejan Vasiljevic, who believes the reigning grand final MVP deserves to make the Boomers starting side.
Australia has a host of talent in the four position, including Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Jack White and Matisse Thybulle.
Watch every game live of the 2022/23 NBL Season on ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
According to Vasiljevic, though, Cooks is on track to secure the Boomers four spot after starting NBL23 averaging 16.75 points, 8.88 rebounds and 4.5 assists.
“I believe he (Xavier) can slot straight into that four-man spot straight away,” said Vasiljevic, who will team up alongside Cooks for the Boomers in a World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan on Saturday November 12 at 1am (AEDT).
“Maybe even the three, depending on how Goorj wants to play.
“He deserves to (make that squad), no doubt about it.
“Big props to him for making the team. I’m looking forward to playing alongside him.”
Vasiljevic and Cooks can help Australia qualify for the 2023 World Cup with a win over Kazakhstan next week.
The Boomers require just one win to cement their position in the Cup, which will be played in Indonesia, the Philippines and Japan next August 25 to September 10.
Vasiljevic knows it won’t be easy to make the final 12-man squad, but he is determined to try.
“I’m focused on winning another championship with the Kings, but I’d also like to don the green and gold at a World Cup,” he said.
“I’ll just focus on being a good teammate, shooting well and defending and the rest will take care of itself.
“It’s up to Basketball Australia to pick the squad moving forward.”
Until then, Vasiljevic’s sole focus is helping Sydney continue its dominant road record against the ladder-leading New Zealand Breakers on Sunday.
The Kings are shooting for a 17th consecutive road win, but it will be a challenge against the Breakers at home.
Vasiljevic has high respect for New Zealand after they played two seasons on the road due to the coronavirus pandemic.
He also can’t wait to play against former championship-winning Kings teammate Tom Vodanovich, who has joined the Breakers.
“I wanted Tommy to stay at the Kings and I told the club, but I’m happy for him to sign over there,” he said.
“The Breakers are first on the ladder, playing at home. I’ve also never been to New Zealand, so I’m looking forward to going there and playing in front of that atmosphere.
“A lot of Breakers fans on Twitter have congratulated me since winning the grand final and they are looking forward to having me in their arena.”
KINGS VS BREAKERS AT SPARK ARENA FROM 2PM AND LIVE ON KAYO, 10 PEACH AND ESPN
More Coverage
Originally published as NBL 2023: Sydney Kings forward Xavier Cooks on track to join NBA stars in Boomers World Cup squad
How Longley lured the NBL’s ‘Beast’ to the Kings
Keli Leaupepe is the Kings’ self-confessed ‘Beast’, but if it wasn’t for Luc Longley he would be flexing his muscles for the Phoenix. This is how the hoops legend changed the course of NBL25.
Crosscourt: Gazey’s left-field pick for return of Boomers’ coach
The hunt for the Boomers’ next head coach is heating up, and hoops legend Andrew Gaze has floated a left-field option. We take a closer look at all the contenders, and more in this week’s Crosscourt.