‘I want to be coached’: How Cam Oliver has used Brian Goorjian’s home truths to become better

Sydney Kings import big man Cam Oliver doesn’t shy away when he says he has copped the brunt of Brian Goorjian’s high standards this season, but insists he can produce even greater performances if he is spared the bench.

Sydney Kings import big man Cam Oliver doesn’t shy away when he says he has copped the brunt of Brian Goorjian’s high standards this season.

Oliver – at his finest – is one of the NBL’s most destructive players. Only problem, he hasn’t displayed it consistently this season as he finds his feet again following three years playing abroad in China, Spain and Puerto Rico.

It has led to Oliver spending more time on the bench at the Kings than any other period in his successful international career.

Goorjian has repeatedly stood his ground and set high standards for Sydney’s import centre.

Cameron Oliver attempts a free throw during the round 11 NBL match between New Zealand Breakers and Sydney Kings at TSB Bank Arena. Photo: Masanori Udagawa/Getty Images.

Oliver has used the “wake up calls” as incentive to improve, but insists he can produce even better performances if he is left on the court for longer – like in last round’s win over Cairns when he dropped a double-double in 29 minutes.

“That specific game – yeah that is the Cam Oliver we all know,” Oliver told Code Sports in reaction to his 15 point and 17 rebound display.

“I’m just trying to bring that on a consistent basis. I think if I’m on the court and can let that marinate a little bit more, I think I can bring those results every single time.

“I honestly feel like I’m one of the best bigs in this league.”

You could understand if Oliver felt frustrated about sitting on the bench for extended periods.

Of course there is a part of him as a competitive professional that doesn’t like it and he’d prefer to be starting.

For the large part, though, Oliver is happy to have an experienced coach like Goorjian pushing him to reach higher standards.

Kings star Cameron Oliver dunks during a clash with the JackJumpers earlier this season. Picture: Getty Images

“At the end of the day, that is what you want,” said the Kings big man, who has played six NBA games for Houston and Atlanta.

“Well, that is at least what I want. I want be coached. I haven’t had that in almost eight years in my career.

“So, I think having that responsibility is really big and I think it is great and I use it as motivation.

“Basketball should be your No.1 priority to get things done.

“If I’m going to get frustrated, I’m not going to show it because I know it is a responsibility for me.

“I know what he (Goorj) wants out of me and I didn’t bring it in that certain moment.”

Oliver respects Goorjian enormously as a coach – a mentor regarded as the NBL’s greatest with six championships and an extensive resume with the Australian Boomers, including a historic bronze medal.

And while he refuses to listen to Goorj’s post-game press conferences – or any outside noise for that matter – he says his relationship with the coach is rock solid behind the scenes.

“I have a personal relationship with Goorj,” said Oliver, who is averaging 11.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 20.3 minutes a game.

Cameron Oliver said his relationship with coach Brian Goorjian is rock solid behind doors. Picture: Getty Images

“It is his job to go to the press conference and say what it is if the effort isn’t there, but behind closed doors we have a great relationship.

“We talk a lot and we have a lot of personal talks about what I need to get done.”

On the day of Oliver’s interview, Goorjian was seen blasting his players at the end of training for failing to deliver the basics like energy and effort.

“You can’t walk back on defence. That is how we’re going to coach,” Goorjian fired.

The veteran mentor is trying to instil a determined mindset into the players and it’s working, according to Oliver.

“Goorj keeps us all to a standard,” he said.

“I think I’ve got a lot of the rap for that, but that is good for us.

“We all want to go to bigger places or to really scratch our full potential as basketball players.

“With Goorj having that standard it really pushes us to work super hard and be sharp.”

.@shaunbruce7 ✈️ Cam Oliver

Live on ESPN and 10 BOLD 👑 #TakeTheThronepic.twitter.com/k9Ej3DoAqz

— Sydney Kings (@SydneyKings) January 12, 2025

Goorjian’s at times ruthless approach is why Oliver has full faith that Sydney can overcome their inconsistencies and compete for a championship.

“We’re a new team, so collectively we are trying to put it all together,” he said.

“There are a lot of moments where we are scratching the surface of being really good but then there are other times when we’re really low.

“Collectively we’re working super hard and we’re really close away from the court, so that will help us.”