Master tactician Rob Beveridge could become the Sydney Kings’ next head coach after officially announcing that he will be leaving the Illawarra Hawks after the season.
The Hawks made headlines today after they announced that they are mutually parting ways with Beveridge.
Hawks General Manager Mat Campbell said:
“Rob Beveridge has been an integral part of the success of the Illawarra Hawks over the past four years. We thank him for everything he has done for the club and wish him nothing but the very best for the future.”
Beveridge said:
“I am extremely thankful to the Illawarra Hawks for giving me the opportunity of being part of an incredible club with so much history and tradition. I am proud of what I have achieved in my four seasons with the club and I know that I am leaving the club in a very strong position for the future.
“I sincerely appreciate all of the support of the club, my staff and support staff, the players, the sponsors and of course all of the fans during my time here. No matter where my journey may lead to, I will leave this club with very fond memories and will cherish this forever.”
It has been a bittersweet experience for Beveridge and the Hawks during their time together.
In his first year as head coach, Beveridge guided the underachieving Hawks straight into the semifinals. He followed it up with a grand final finish in 2016-2017. However, the club has failed to reach the playoffs since.
Speculation pointed to Beveridge signing with a new club after Andrew Gaze announced his departure from the Sydney Kings immediately after the NBL finals. Now there is a strong possibility that he could well be taking over Gaze next season.
Beveridge’s close ties with Andrew Bogut, Brad Newley and Kevin Lisch would make a new coaching transition smoother. Bogut and Newley played for Bevo when they represented the gold-medal winning Emus Under-19s squad in 2003, while Lisch played for Perth and Illawarra under Beveridge’s tutelage.
Former Sydney Kings head coach Bob Turner shared some insight with Aussiehoopla.
“Rob Beveridge is a New South Wales boy and would love to get back and coach the Kings. That’s a decision for the owners, everything else is speculation and we’re not privy to that.”
Sydney are in a great position to build on their success this season and continue their winning ways by considering Bevo as their future head coach. He would have the respect and full support of the Kings stars moving forward.