Former NBA Rising Star Joins Kings

Monday, June 19, 2023

"Everyone knows the talent that Jonah possesses. His length, athleticism and range make him an immediate threat."

Former Philadelphia 76er and Boomers representative Jonah Bolden has announced a sensational return to basketball for the upcoming season, and will suit up for the Sydney Kings in NBL24.

Bolden initially retired from the sport aged just 25 to pursue a career in cryptocurrency, following a highly successful – and title-laden – stint in Israel, and over 60 games in the NBA for Philadelphia and Phoenix.

His father, Bruce, won an NBL title with the South East Melbourne Magic in 1992, and earned NBL Sixth Man of the Year honours in 1999. He also played for the Kings between 1995 and 1998.

“Of course, this is a unique situation,” Kings CEO Chris Pongrass said. “Jonah’s intentions and love for the game are pure, and we are thrilled to provide him with a platform to return.

“Everyone knows the talent that Jonah possesses. His length, athleticism and range make him an immediate threat.

“Jonah ticks a lot of boxes for us roster-wise and allows us to play with a variety of different line-ups between DJ (Hogg), Jordi (Hunter), Kouat (Noi) and Jonah.”

Prior to starting his NBA career, Bolden spent three seasons at UCLA, before electing to turn professional with FMB in Serbia.

Following a sole season in Serbia, he moved to Israel with Israeli Basketball Premier League powerhouse Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he won both the Israeli Cup and Israeli League as a draft and stash player with the Philadelphia 76ers.

“I’m excited to join the Kings,” Bolden said. “First and foremost I get to represent the city I grew up in, and play for the club and wear the same jersey as my dad did.

“Many of my first basketball memories or photos are me with a Kings basketball in my hands or with a Kings shirt on.

“I feel I can bring basketball maturity and leadership to the Kings’ group, as well as an awareness of how to make others around me better.

“I’m confident I can help the team build towards a third straight title.”

Bolden joins DJ Hogg, Shaun Bruce, Dejan Vasiljevic, Angus Glover, Kouat Noi, Jaylin Galloway, Jordi Hunter and Makuach Maluach on the Kings’ main roster for NBL24, plus development players Jackson Makoi and Klairus Amir.