Showman Noi ready to bring finals energy

Kouat Noi cannot wait to put on a ‘show’ for his home fans when the Sydney Kings finally take to the court in the NBL finals.

With FIBA commitments on this past weekend, the Kings won’t host their first home semi-final until Wednesday, March 11, after finishing as regular season champions.

Although not fazed as to who the Kings may play in the semi-finals, Noi did nominate one Victorian outfit.

“I don't really mind who but I'd love to see South East in the finals,’’ Noi said following Kings training on Friday.

"They match up well with us, I think it'd be exciting for everyone to watch. I'd love to beat them in the finals and win that championship.

"For sure."

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Asked as to who can topple the Kings after winning an incredible 17 of their last 19 games, Noi was full of self-belief.

“The play-offs is a different atmosphere, different type of game, the energy, the game takes a lift to a whole other level,’’ he said.

“But to answer your question, no (no one can beat us), I think we're going to go two and three in this play-off series.

“We had practice today. It was our first practice back since taking a little break, and I can honestly say, this probably was the best practice we've had all season.

“And we've been practising well all season and hard, but today's just totally up a notch, which is very exciting.

“Finals, it’s the best time of the year. I really enjoy these times.

“It is where players get to showcase their talent on the bigger stage. You can play well all season, you can play bad all season long, but once you perform in the playoffs, I think that's when people make a mark.”



A noted showman who thrives off positive energy, Noi praised Kings Coach Brian Goorjian for encouraging him to be just his natural self.

“Yeah, he loves it, man. Yeah, I just get to go out there and be myself,’’ Noi added.

“That's the most important. And, you know, that's just who I am, man.

“I love entertaining people. I love putting bums on seats. You’re going to see another level of Kouat Noi in the playoffs."

Goorjian said he was more than happy to let Noi showcase his personality.

"We're involved in entertainment, and I (told him) I want you to be you,'' Goorjian said.

"And what Kouat does for the team is he provides a confidence, a belief, and an energy that is really infectious and is really good for the team.

"And this year, and last year, but more so this year, when he gets hot and gets rolling, it's really helped us win games.

"Whereas last year, we won a few and it kept us in it. This year, his performances led to more wins. And he's a character that's really, when you put the balance of the group, this guy's like this, this one's like this.

"Kouat's special in a different way, and him being Kouat is really important for our success."