Lau commits to University of Pittsburgh

Sydney Kings young gun Henry Lau has announced that the next step in his basketball journey will be with the University of Pittsburgh in the United States.

The Norths Bear junior, who spent the NBL25 campaign as a Kings development player, will achieve a lifelong dream when he joins the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) school in the next few weeks for his freshman season.

"I’m extremely excited, as playing college basketball has always been a dream of mine," Lau said.

"Growing up in Australia, playing college basketball in the US can seem like a very distant goal at times, so to finally achieve this dream is incredibly surreal.

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"To do it at a school like Pitt, with its tradition, coaching staff, and fan base, makes the opportunity even more special.  

"I feel Pitt has everything I could ask for to help guide me and grow in this new chapter of my career.

"I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and now I’m ready to work even harder and prove myself at the next level."

Further to that, Lau believes Pittsburgh is the perfect landing spot for him to continue his progression as a player.

"Pitt was exactly what I was looking for," he said.

"Competing in the ACC means I’ll be playing against the best in the country, and that’s exactly the type of challenge I wanted.

"Pitt feels like a place where I can really develop, not just as a player, but as a person.

"The coaching staff has a strong reputation for player development and pushing guys to reach the next level, and that aligns with my goals.

"I also loved the energy around the program — the fans, the support, and the city of Pittsburgh, built on grit and hard work. It’s a place where I know I’ll be pushed, but also where I’ll be backed every step of the way.

"From my first conversation with coach Capel, I could sense his trust and belief in me, and as an incoming freshman, that clarity and belief in my role inspires and motivates me to work as hard as I can to fulfil my role for this team."

Lau admits this opportunity with the Panthers might not have presented itself if not for his season with the Hoops Capital side.

"Playing with the Sydney Kings gave me a huge advantage," he said.

"Being around professionals every day taught me the importance of preparation, attention to detail, and the mental side of the game.

"The staff and players alike were incredibly supportive and welcoming, the advice they gave me and lessons they taught me were invaluable and gave me a great advantage coming into college.

"Being able to compete with high-level athletes who play basketball for a living forced me to adapt to a level of competitiveness I haven’t seen before, and I think that’s prepared me to step into college ready to contribute."

To ensure he hits the ground running in year one with the Panthers, the 18-year-old will head to the US next month and begin summer workouts with his side.

"The coaches have spoken to me about being a high-energy guy who can impact the game on both ends of the floor, scoring, creating for others, and defending multiple positions, also bringing that Aussie grit and competitiveness to the team," the Sydney Boys High School alum said.

"I’m the type of player who’s willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win. I’m ready to impact the game however I’m needed.

"I take pride in showing up every day with intensity and hunger, and I’m looking forward to earning my role through my work ethic and drive."

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Lau went on to outline the goals he wants to achieve with Pittsburgh.

"My number one goal is to win," the NSW product said.

"I want to help Pitt compete at the highest level and bring a winning culture every single day.

"I’m coming in with a team-first mindset, and I want to contribute to a group that’s hungry, connected, and ready to battle every night.

"Individually, I want to grow into a complete player — someone who can be trusted in big moments, who leads by example, and who brings intensity on both ends of the floor.

"I take pride in being versatile, and my goal is to keep sharpening every part of my game and continue evolving year by year."

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