Kings Championship Import Trio Unlikely to Return

Sydney Kings CEO Chris Pongrass has conceded championship winning import trio Jaylen Adams, Jarell Martin and Ian Clark are unlikely to return next season.

Adams took the NBL by storm and won the league’s MVP award, Clark proved to be a vital midseason addition and Martin has been a picture of consistency throughout his two seasons in Sydney.

However, as the Kings prepare to defend their crown, new imports are expected to suit up in the purple and gold.

“Jaylen Adams, Jarell Martin and Ian Clark were an incredible trio in terms of imports in the NBL. As much as we continue every effort to have them all return, it's unlikely we will have them all back,” Pongrass said.

“I do know that they are all in high demand globally and that is a testimony to our program and the platform the Sydney Kings offered them.”

Pongrass revealed the club has numerous “intriguing” import options available.

“We have been highly active and focused in our conversations with a variety of imports,” he said.

“We feel we have several intriguing options in front of us as we deal with possible scenarios of some players not returning and how we piece together a roster that will give us the best possible chance to go back-to-back.

“I know that Chase (Buford) is incredibly excited by the opportunity to construct a roster that will play Kings-style basketball that our fans loved.”

Sydney won its first championship since 2005 this season after sweeping the Tasmania JackJumpers 3-0 in the Grand Final series.