Kings name Tom Vodanovich as injury replacement player

The Brydens Lawyers Sydney Kings have today announced the signing of New Zealand forward Tom Vodanovich as a nominated injury replacement player for Xavier Cooks. 

Vodanovich joins the Kings after two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers, and coming off an impressive off-season in the NZNBL where he took out the league’s MVP award as well as All-Star Five honours earlier this year.

The Tall Black had most recently signed with BBC Telstar Hesper of the Total League in Luxembourg, before their season was cut short due to COVID-19.

In his most recent NZNBL MVP season he averaged 22.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists for the Manawatu Jets, including leading them to a Grand Final appearance.
 
Sydney Kings CEO Chris Pongrass believes Vodanovich is the perfect fit for the Kings group as the team continues their pre-season preparations ahead of their first game in mid-January.

“Albeit under difficult circumstances, we are excited to be welcoming Tom to the Kings” Pongrass said.

“A unique offensive talent, Tom can really stroke the ball and has shown that with his recent performances in the NZNBL. He is a gritty, tough player, that fits exactly what we were after. I was surprised he had not already been snapped up on an NBL roster” Pongrass added. 

Vodanovich comes in to replace Kings star Xavier Cooks who has been sidelined with an ankle injury for up to three months. He has already travelled from New Zealand and is currently with the team in Albury as they prepare for NBL21 season.