Paul Smith thanks Kings supporters for NBL24 season

With the siren sounding on the NBL24 season, Sydney Kings co-owner and chairman Paul Smith has written a letter to the club's loyal members and fans.

The 2024 Sydney Kings season is behind us and what has been in many respects a frustrating year on the court has been contrasted with an outstanding year of support from members and fans.

The Sydney Kings for the first time became the most attended team in the NBL regular season with 175,704 people attending our 14 home games at an average of 12,550. 

Memberships were at record levels, some 18 per cent, above our previous best.

Our initiatives such as Pink Hoops, in partnership with The McGrath Foundation, drew over 16,000 fans alone and highlighted the challenge of our beloved former player and now Flames assistant coach, Tiana Mangakahia.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR NBL25 MEMBERSHIPS NOW

So, a massive thank you to each of the fans who supported your beloved Kings.

We know that there was widespread disappointment with the team's performance this season. 

As an organization, we set high standards, and we take this seriously.

As our season ended a review was commenced into all aspects of our basketball operations and it was determined to part ways with head coach, Mahmoud Abdelfattah. 

These decisions are not taken lightly, and we remain indebted to Mahmoud and his wife, Janine for their contributions.

Last week we announced the appointment of Brian Goorjian as head coach for the next three years. 

Having Brian return to the Sydney Kings is something that we are proud to have achieved and are grateful for his commitment and I am sure you will support me in welcoming our new head coach.

READ MORE: KINGS APPOINT CLUB LEGEND BRIAN GOORJIAN AS HEAD COACH

On the player front, the off-season has commenced with Jaylin Galloway being the latest Sydney King to transition to the NBA, joining the Milwaukie Bucks on a two-way contract, something that we are incredibly proud of.

Looking forward, Brian and our basketball performance team are busy preparing for the NBL free agency, and we look forward to more announcements as we build out the roster for the NBL25.

Importantly, I would like to thank our growing family of corporate partners, led by Harvey Norman, who have come together to improve our fan experience and support the growth of basketball in Sydney using our partnerships to grow their own businesses, truly a win/win if there was one.

Regards, Paul Smith - majority owner and chairman.