Chase Buford is out as the Sydney Kings head coach after the team announced that they would not be picking up their option on the third year of the contract.
In a statement, the Kings said that the reason for Buford’s departure is due to his pursuing an NBA coaching opportunity, which meant he was unable to fully commit to the team.
Buford coached the Sydney Kings through an unbelievably successful two-year period for the franchise, winning back-to-back championships, with two different Kings players winning the MVP awards in consecutive years: Jaylen Adams and Xavier Cooks.
But as is often the case in the NBL, sustained success can lead to greater overseas opportunities, and this is the case with Buford, who is continuing to interview for a position in the NBA.
According to Kings chairman Paul Smith, losing Buford was disappointing for the team, but they understand and support him in furthering his career.
“The timing is challenging but we are at a point where we must make a call to ensure we have certainty about key roles,” Smith said.
“We wish nothing but the best for Chase, this is a difficult decision but one that is made from respect to Chase and his ambitions, but also the best interests of the Sydney Kings.
“Chase has played a monumental role in the success of the club over the past two seasons.”
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The loss of Buford is a huge blow for the Kings, who also lost MVP Xavier Cooks, who signed in the NBA with the Washington Wizards.
With the off-season in full swing, the Kings’ attention must now turn to replacing one of the best coaches the franchise has ever seen, as well as landing some major signings, with Makuach Maluach and Klairus Amir the only free agent signings the reigning champions have made so far.