Robertson proud to celebrate culture as Kings prepare for two-game week

Sydney Kings guard Tyler Robertson says Indigenous Round is an important opportunity to celebrate First Nations culture and the diverse backgrounds within the playing group, as the team prepares for two games this week.

Sunday’s game against the New Zealand Breakers will see the Kings will proudly wear jerseys featuring artwork by Dharug/Wiradjuri artist Ruby Prasad.

For Robertson, wearing the jersey is about representing the artist, her family and the story behind the design.

“It’s super awesome that Ruby was able to do it this year. She did an amazing job, and all of us are looking forward to being able to represent her family.”

Robertson said the opportunity to celebrate culture through basketball was meaningful for a playing group made up of people from different backgrounds.

“I think everybody has their own individual culture they come from,” he said.

“It’s important that everyone can showcase that, and we’re able to do that this weekend wearing these jerseys.”

“You look at basketball teams, any sporting teams around the world, they have people from all different walks of life, so you’re constantly carrying that with you. I think it’s awesome to be able to express that in the sporting world.”

Robertson will also take that celebration onto the floor through specially painted shoes, something he looks forward to wearing for Indigenous Round.

“The shoes look awesome. I always love being able to do it. I couldn’t be more excited for it.”

Alongside the significance of the round, the Kings are keeping their focus on improvement as they prepare for this week’s two-game schedule.

Robertson said the Kings are encouraged by their progress but still had work to do, particularly on the defensive end.

“We feel like we’re in a good position, but we know there’s still plenty of room to grow,” he said.

“On the defensive end, we’ve still got strides to take. The better and better we get on that side of the floor, the offence will figure itself out.”

Managing the short turnaround between games will also be important, with the Kings balancing preparation on court with rest and recovery.

Robertson credited the coaching, medical and support staff with ensuring players have what they need to back up.

“Our coaching and support staff, physios, all of our team do a really good job of looking after us and making sure we’ve got what we need,” he said.

“Whether it’s rest, whether it’s low days on the court, extra recovery outside of the usual training is super important.

“We’ve had a few times now where we’ve had quick turnarounds, and I think we’re doing a better job each and every time. You learn from each experience and go from there.”

While pleased with the team’s position, Robertson said the Kings were measuring themselves by their daily progress rather than their place on the ladder.

“It’s a day-by-day process of being able to get better,” he said.

“We’re not satisfied even when we win. We continue to find different ways as individuals in which we can continue to grow, but also as a team where we can continue to get better as well.”

‍