Former Mustang
Tim Soares, a three-time All-American, has signed with the Sydney Kings of the National Basketball League (Australia) to continue his professional basketball career.
Last season Soares was with Ironi Nes Ziona (Israel) where he averaged 14 points (60% FG, 54% 3P), 6.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. Before that he played in the Turkish Basketball First League with Samsunspor, posting season averages of 14.1 points and 9.5 rebounds (5
th in the league). Soares played with the Milwaukee Bucks Summer League team this past July.
"I have only heard good things about the Sydney Kings program, and I am very excited about working with the staff," Soares told the Sydney Daily Telegraph. "Every year I believe my game has improved. Playing at a high level with great players and coaches will help improve my game more. My strengths are definitely being able to knock down threes as a big man and play at a high, fast pace running the floor."
The NBL is Australia and New Zealand's premier professional basketball league. Founded in 1979, the league consists of 10 teams, nine in Australia and one in New Zealand. Games are broadcast by ESPN and Sky Sports in Australia, with worldwide streaming provided by KayoSports.com.
Considered one of the top teams in the NBL, the Sydney Kings won their fourth NBL championship this past May. The team plays their home games in the Sydney Super Dome, averaging over 10,000 fans per game.
"Tim is a versatile centre who has a great shooting touch and range – he allows us to stretch the floor and will play a key role in our offense this season," Kings CEO Chris Pongrass told the Sydney Daily Telegraph. "He fits perfectly into our brand of Sydney Kings basketball and the up-tempo, exciting style of basketball our coach Chase Buford and his team have brought to the Harbour City."
Soares is looking forward to continuing to elevate his game.
"The NBL is a high level league that I have worked hard to get to," Soares went on to say. "I can't wait to improve and be part of what the league has to offer."
The Kings open their schedule on October 1 against the Illawarra Hawks.
