Kings farewell two-time champion

The turnover from the Sydney Kings’ NBL26 championship side has continued, with another key piece being confirmed to depart.

On Monday, that club announced that two-time NBL champion Tim Soares would not be returning for the Hungry Jack’s 2026-27 Season, after the Brazilian big man signed a deal with Japanese B.LEAGUE side, the Ibaraki Robots.

This move will see him team up with former Melbourne United forward Finn Delany, whose departure from the NBL was also confirmed this week.

During the 2025-26 season, Soares, who also helped the Kings win the NBL23 title, posted averages of 11.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game.

Soares’ exit follows in the footsteps of Bul Kuol and Kouat Noi signing with Adelaide and New Zealand respectively.

As it stands, Brian Goorjian has Kendric Davis, Xavier Cooks, Matthew Dellavedova, Jaylin Galloway, Keli Leaupepe, Tyler Robertson and Jason Spurgin on his NBL27 roster.

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