Kings recruit Soares excited to test himself in NBL

By Dan Woods - NBL Media

The Sydney Kings' signing of import Tim Soares hammers home the 'defence' element of the Kings' back-to-back ambitions, with the six-foot-11 big man arriving in the NBL with a reputation as a dangerous shot-blocker.

After stints in Turkey, Israel and the NBA G-League, Soares enters a Kings that’s helped the likes of Jae-Sean Tate and Didi Louzada fulfil their NBA dreams in recent years.

He says he’s excited to play in a league that’s, in his opinion, one of the best in the world.

“I think for me the (NBL) is one of the closest things to the NBA. I’ve always known about the Australian league and how strong it’s been,” Soares said.

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“Being here and around that environment is a great thing. I definitely believe the NBL (is a great league), and I’ve heard a lot of people say that who knows what they’re talking about.

“The biggest attraction for me is how many people have gone through the program have done well.

“I definitely think that it’s a jump for me, [but] I’m excited to be here, prove myself and be a part of this special club.”

Soares, a three-time GSAC leader in blocks during his college days with The Master’s University, he comes into the Kings’ side with former Illawarra wing and NBL Defensive Player of the Year Justin Simon.

The Brazilian-born tall has had some second-hand experience of his new home, with his mother, Susan, participating in a number of basketball tours to Australia.

He says she’s given him a hot tip for his time in the country.

“[My mum] just said you’ve got to see some kangaroos. I’m [also] excited for the weather,” Soares said.

“I want to be able to help the team whichever way they need. I’m excited to be able to run the court and shoot the ball from three.