The Sydney Kings, one of the premier teams in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL), have been making waves this season with their defensive prowess and winning record. However, one of their star imports, Cameron Oliver, has found himself in an unfamiliar position: coming off the bench with reduced minutes.
A New Role for Cam Oliver
Cameron Oliver, a 26-year-old power forward from Oakland, California, has been a dominant force in the NBL since his debut with the Cairns Taipans in 2022. Known for his athleticism, rebounding, and scoring ability, Oliver averaged an impressive 17.3 points and 10.0 rebounds per game in his first season.
However, since joining the Sydney Kings for the 2024-25 season, Oliver has seen his role drastically change under head coach Brian Goorjian. The six-time NBL Coach of the Year has been experimenting with different lineups and rotations, often leaving Oliver on the bench for extended periods.
I’ve, with all of them, put some guidelines that need to get done to play. If those aren’t met, it’s time I take the reins here. This, this, and this has to be done, or you’re over there [on the bench]. I’m not talking about Cam Oliver; I’m talking about as a group.
– Brian Goorjian, Sydney Kings Head Coach
Despite the reduced playing time, Oliver has maintained a positive attitude and is focusing on what he can control: bringing energy and effort whenever he’s on the court.
Literally, it’s just energy. Bringing complete energy. I don’t think it’s anything like: being in a certain spot, or being in a dunker’s spot, or being on the perimeter. It’s just: bring energy, be me, talk, and I think, at times, I’m not showing that as much in certain spurts when we need it.
– Cameron Oliver, Sydney Kings Power Forward
Embracing the Role, No Complaints
While some players might bristle at a diminished role, especially after establishing themselves as a star, Oliver is taking it in stride. He understands that playing a specific role is crucial for the team’s success and is committed to excelling in that capacity.
There are no complaints from me. I don’t complain about anything. I’ve got tough skin, and I’m gonna do everything I can to contribute for the team.
– Cameron Oliver
Oliver’s maturity and team-first mentality have not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaching staff. As the Kings continue to navigate a competitive NBL season, having a player of Oliver’s caliber willing to sacrifice individual accolades for the greater good could prove invaluable.
Defensive Dominance
Despite the occasional offensive struggles, the Sydney Kings have established themselves as the best defensive team in the NBL. They boast a league-best 105.4 Defensive Rating, holding opponents to a meager 47% effective field goal percentage and 30.5% from beyond the arc.
Oliver acknowledges that the team’s defense is still a work in progress but sees its potential to be truly special.
It’s day by day, we’re still figuring out more and more about what we can do. We’re right there. It’s like, we’re realising we’re monsters on the defensive end.
– Cameron Oliver
The Road Ahead
As the Kings prepare for their upcoming “Freeway Series” rivalry game against the Illawarra Hawks, all eyes will be on how Goorjian utilizes his talented roster. Will Oliver’s minutes continue to fluctuate, or will he find a consistent role within the rotation?
Regardless of his individual playing time, Oliver’s commitment to the team and willingness to embrace his role could serve as a catalyst for the Kings’ success. If they can continue to lock down opponents defensively and find offensive cohesion, the Sydney Kings may be poised for a deep playoff run.
As the NBL season unfolds, basketball fans across Australia will be watching intently to see how Cameron Oliver and the Sydney Kings navigate this new team dynamic. With a star player embracing a supporting role and a defensive identity taking shape, the Kings are a team to keep an eye on in the coming months.
