Brian Goorjian elevates Kings part-owner and NBA champion Andrew Bogut to assistant coach

NBA champion Andrew Bogut will take on a bigger role with the Kings in NBL26, as master coach Brian Goorjian’s makes a big call on his future coaching staff.

NBA champion Andrew Bogut will join Brian Goorjian’s coaching staff at the Sydney Kings in NBL26 in a move described as an opportunity that couldn’t be missed.

The Kings, on Wednesday, confirmed Bogut has been elevated to assistant coach as part of key changes to the club’s coaching structure.

Goorjian said the chance to include Bogut – a team part-owner – on the Kings’ coaching staff was impossible to ignore.

“Being a three-time Olympian and an NBA champion, Andrew has a blue-chip pedigree,” Goorjian said.

“His knowledge of the game is elite and I know he will be a very valuable addition to our coaching staff.

“Andrew and I already enjoy a strong relationship and I am excited and feel fortunate to have someone of his calibre by my side.”

Andrew Bogut will be assistant coach at the Sydney Kings in NBL26. Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images.

Luc Longley, part of the Hoops Capital ownership group, backed the decision, highlighting Bogut’s international career and deep understanding of the game.

“Brian’s move to bring Andrew in is a smart one,” Longley said about Bogut, who won the NBL MVP with the Kings in 2018/19.

“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.”

Goorjian said he was looking forward to the season ahead and is confident in the team’s direction after finishing sixth in NBL25.

“This will be a huge season for the Kings,” Goorjian said.

“The goal is clear – we want to take the throne and bring a championship back to Sydney.”

Andrew Bogut won an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors. Picture: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images.

Bogut, who remains part of the Kings ownership group, said he was eager to take on the role and contribute to the team’s championship ambitions.

“Being away from the game for five years, the itch to get back on the court was growing stronger with time,” Bogut said.

“I’m honoured to step into this position and work alongside Brian.

“Coaching is something I’m passionate about, and I can’t wait to help drive this team forward.”

With a career that includes an NBA championship (2015); being the first overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft; NBL MVP (2018/19); and three Olympic appearances, Bogut brings a wealth of experience to the Kings’ coaching program.

He will commence his role ahead of the NBL26 season.

Bogut’s appointment comes just days after the Kings parted ways with assistant coach Daniel Kickert.

Originally published as Brian Goorjian elevates Kings part-owner and NBA champion Andrew Bogut to assistant coach