3 minute read

Talented forward Xavier Cooks has re-signed with the Sydney Kings on a one-year NBL deal after taking time to explore overseas options.

Boomers prospect Xavier Cooks has re-signed with the Sydney Kings on a one-year NBL deal after deciding to remain in Australia.

The 24-year-old forward announced in May he would explore his options overseas - to secure a better financial deal - after the NBL announced a series of drastic salary-cutting measures.

But the Kings on Tuesday said Cooks had recommitted to the club, which he joined mid-way through the 2019-20 season after recovering from a knee injury during Australian practice before last year's World Cup.

In 20 games for the Kings, Cooks averaged 6.7 points, 9.0 rebound per game.

"I loved every minute of my time with the Kings last season, and I'm excited to be returning to Sydney to finish what we started this year" Cooks said in a statement.

The talented forward played a pivotal role in helping Sydney claim the minor premiership and advance to their first grand final appearance since 2008

Kings coach Will Weaver was delighted to have Cooks returning to his line-up.

"Despite joining us late, Xavier was a huge part of our team's success last season and I'm thrilled that he will be staying in Sydney with us," Weaver said.

Cooks becomes the sixth contracted player for Sydney, joining Brad Newley, Craig Moller, Shaun Bruce, Jordan Hunter and Didi Louzada for the upcoming season.