Unsung hero: Soares’ defining moment

Kendric Davis has deservedly taken the headlines for his incredible Championship Series, but Tim Soares’ impact cannot be overlooked.

With just seven seconds remaining in regulation and the Kings trailing by two, Soares delivered.

“On the final play, Kendric Davis takes that three-pointer, misses it and Zylan (Cheatham) isn’t able to come up with the rebound … Tim Soares does a great job at securing the offensive board and then finishes to tie the game up, just before Bryce (Cotton) misses the Championship winner,” former NBL MVP Derek Rucker said on Moments That Mattered, presented by Mitsubishi Motors.

“That was a huge play.”

Soares was a key contributor throughout the Series, finishing fourth in Sengstock Trophy voting.

He produced 20 points, seven rebounds and two steals in the Game 5 decider.

“Tim Soares might have been one of the most underrated players all season,” NBL champion Pete Hooley said.

“Little moments are what create champions and we saw that with that Tim Soares offensive rebound.

“If he doesn’t get that, what happens with that missed three? It doesn’t even go to the Bryce Cotton layup.”

Brian Goorjian was quick to praise the import, who claimed his second title after first winning with the Kings in 2023.

“He’s (Soares) not mentioned a lot. He's never missed anything all year,” the seven-time championship coach said.

“He was a huge factor last year and what he's done with his role in this, and there was a lot coming towards me to bring him back (in NBL26) if you want to win … and he's delivered.”