The Pressure On Brian Goorjian: A Closer Look At The Expectations And Challenges

Is Brian Goorjian Under Pressure?

To borrow a line from Derek Rucker, the Sydney Kings are "playing winning basketball without looking good."

With the talent on their roster and the legendary coaching pedigree of Brian Goorjian, expectations for the Kings were sky-high entering the season. Many, including myself, anticipated Sydney finishing 1st or 2nd on the ladder. While they are performing well, it feels underwhelming considering their potential. Realistically, this team should be firmly in the top two.

One of the more puzzling decisions has been Goorjian's reluctance to play Cam Oliver consistently. When finally given meaningful minutes, Oliver delivered an outstanding performance: 15 points, 17 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block against his former team the Cairns Taipans. His production raises legitimate questions about Goorjian's lineup choices and whether the Kings are maximising their roster's capabilities.

This team boasts one of the most stacked rosters in NBL history. Yet, despite the depth and star power, the Kings haven’t fully clicked. Goorjian faces a critical challenge—finding the right rotations and strategies to unlock this team's full potential. The frustration is mounting, and it feels like excuses are starting to overshadow solutions.

Brian Goorjian's legacy as Australia's greatest basketball coach is undisputed, but this season could define whether he still holds that title or if the game has begun to pass him by. The remainder of the season will reveal if Goorjian can adapt and lead the Kings to the dominance expected of them—or if he risks falling short of the high bar he has set throughout his storied career.

Listen To The First Episode Of Kings Table.