Former Sydney Kings captain Brad Rosen believes arguably the greatest King – Matt Nielsen – would be the perfect choice as the club’s next coach.
Rosen, though, wouldn’t blame Nielsen if he opts to stay at the San Antonio Spurs to help mentor the best NBA draft prospect since LeBron James.
The Spurs have become a desirable destination again after securing the No. 1 draft pick – which is set to be 7-foot-4 French sensation Victor Wembanyama.
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Nielsen, who is an assistant coach at San Antonio under the legendary Gregg Popovich, will receive a front-row seat to watch Wembanyama in action.
Rosen knows it would be difficult for his ex-Sydney teammate to surrender an opportunity working alongside basketball’s next big time.
“I also think it’s at least worth reaching out to Matty – how could you not,” said Rosen, who played 99 NBL games for the Kings.
“I played with him, he has stayed at my house, we are great mates, I think he is a fabulous coach and I think he would be the best coach for the Kings.
“He is also a Boomers assistant coach, so there is no question that he would be awesome for Sydney and as an assistant the Kings’ top job would be appealing.
“But there is no way that he is leaving San Antonio, is he?
“He has a great relationship with Popovich and now there is Wembanyama.”
Rosen understands it will be difficult to lure Nielsen away from his role at the Spurs, but he insists Sydney need to at least try.
He says the Kings would benefit greatly from signing the Boomers assistant coach and NBL legend.
“I don’t want to disrespect anyone, but I think Matty is the greatest King, performance wise,” Rosen said.
“MVP of a season, a grand final series, two championships.
“He was just phenomenal at the Kings, and he is a Sydney boy (Penrith), so he would be perfect for the club.”
Sydney is on lookout for a new coach after parting ways with Chase Buford following consecutive championships.
The Kings have recently been successful selecting rising American coaches with G League or NBA experience like Buford and Will Weaver.
Rosen understands if Sydney follow this path again as they look to secure a head coach for NBL24 and beyond.
“I do – and the reason I say that is if you are wanting to get to the NBA and you’ve seen what the Kings have done – why wouldn’t you take it,” he said.
“Sydney is coming off back-to-back championships – it’s the hottest job in Australian basketball.
“Two out of the last three head coaches look like they’ll go on to the NBA.
“So, if you are a decent assistant coach and you want to become a head coach, the Kings have to be considered.
“You’ve also got legends like Luc Longley and Andrew Bogut at the Kings and all eyes are on the club.”
Sports reporter
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