Kings add familiar face to coaching ranks

Another face from the Sydney Kings’ three-peat of the early 2000s has rejoined the club, with Bill Tomlinson being appointed to an assistant role alongside Daniel Kickert for NBL25.

Tomlinson spent a decade with the Kings between 1997 and 2007, and worked alongside Brian Goorjian for the club’s three titles between 2003-2005.

The experienced coach was the head coach of the Sydney Flames side that won the 1997 WNBL title and has spent time as an assistant coach with the Chinese women’s national team since his previous departure from the Kings.

Tomlinson says he wants to create more success at the Kings alongside Goorjian.

“When you’re involved in so many championships and successful seasons at one place, it always holds a special place in your heart,” Tomlinson said.

“We made some incredible and exciting memories during Brian and my first stint together at the club, and we intend to do the same this time around.

“It’s great to come back to the Kings after all these years – it feels like I’m coming home.”

The Kings have been active so far in NBL free agency, and have confirmed the signings of collegiate duo Keli Leaupepe and Tyler Robertson, and former Breaker Izayah Le’Afa.

Shaun Bruce, Kouat Noi and Makuach Maluach have all also been re-signed, while Alex Toohey is set to return for a second season as a Next Star.

“The foundations are obviously there for a club to be successful, with Brian and I just trying to tweak a few things and get a good balance across the board,” Tomlinson said.

“We’ve got some exciting young players coming back from college in Keli and Tyler, a few players such as Kouat, Alex, Makuach and Klairus (Amir) who we know have another level to go with their game.

“We’re now working through the process of surrounding these guys with more exciting talent.”