Kings re-sign Leaupepe on new two-year deal

Keli Leaupepe didn't play a single minute this season. But he helped us lift the trophy and became a Sydney Kings champion. 


The fan-favourite forward has signed a new two-year deal with the club, capping off a season that showed exactly what kind of person he is.

After tearing his ACL in the NBL Blitz against Brisbane, Leaupepe spent the entire season on the sideline. He was there anyway, every game, every training session, and right there when the Kings won the Championship. 



That's not nothing. For a lot of players, an injury like that is isolating. Leaupepe made it look like the opposite.

"I’m grateful to be back with the Sydney Kings for another two years," Keli said.

"Last season tested me in many ways, but it also gave me a different perspective on the game and what it takes to win at the highest level.

"I’m excited to give Sydney my all and eager to chase that championship feeling again, this time on the court."



Kings GM of Basketball James Newman said Keli was a big part of this championship team, even without setting foot on the floor.

"He showed up every single day and never let the group forget he was one of them. When we won, he won. Simple as that." 

If this is the impact he had on the Sydney Kings without stepping on the court, we can't wait to see what happens when he does.