Sydney Kings CEO Chris Pongrass has revealed the club’s strategy approaching the remainder of free agency in an open letter to the club’s members on Thursday.
The Kings will head into NBL24 with the hopes of earning their third straight title, but this time will not have star forward Xavier Cooks or two-time championship winning coach Chase Buford to call on as they look to complete a historic three-peat.
Import stars Justin Simon, Tim Soares and Larry Sengstock Trophy winner Derrick Walton Jr also remain unsigned for the upcoming campaign.
Simon is currently representing Verona in Italy’s Leg Basket Serie A, while Soares is playing alongside Gary Browne and Mitch Creek at Mets de Guaynabo in Puerto Rico.
Walton Jr has not played since winning the Championship Series against the New Zealand Breakers.
“We have a clear strategy for this year and next year’s roster build,” Pongrass wrote. “This involves us being methodical and measured in our approach with each individual signing.
“We are not just signing players to sign them – it needs to fit within our model.
“We had similar challenges last off-season having to replace our highly touted import trio; many said we couldn’t back it up, that we were taking too long and becoming complacent.
“Didn’t we prove them wrong.
“We are active in our conversations with a variety of marquee locals, imports and Next Star prospects. There are a number of enticing options in front of us that are progressing well.”
The Kings CEO also stated there is “one major signing that has been agreed to and will be announced soon.”
Pongrass also called for patience and trust in the club’s ongoing discussions to replace Buford as head coach.
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“We are incredibly excited by the opportunity to construct a team that will play thrilling, fast-paced and Kings-style basketball that our members and fans have grown to love,” he continued.
“We all will miss Chase and the passion, commitment and sacrifice given to our club. I couldn’t be more appreciative for the two years we shared together and all that we built.
“Our focus now firmly shifts to the recruitment of our next head coach. We have cast a wide net, but rest assured the process is well underway.”
The Kings’ NBL24 campaign will begin against local rivals Illawarra on Saturday, September 30.
They are due to raise their newest championship banner to the rafters ahead of their first home game of the season on Sunday, October 8.
