Kings Ink Highly-Touted Talent to Three-Year Deal

The Sydney Kings have added one of Australia’s most exciting young players to its roster for NBL24 and beyond by signing 18-year-old Klairus Amir to a three-year deal.

Amir, a 6’7” wing, will be a development player for the first two years of the deal before joining the Kings’ main roster ahead of NBL26.

Prior to his commitment to the Kings Amir was listed as a four-star college recruit by ESPN, and ranked as one of the top 20 prospects in the Western region of the United States.

Amir says the Kings represent the right fit for him to start his career.

"From a young age, I've watched and supported the Sydney Kings, so to be able to now play for them is something really special," Amir said. 

"My plan after the United States was always to come home at some point and after having the chance to work out with them and seeing the way they treated me, I knew the Kings was the perfect spot for me to continue to develop my game.

"The fit just felt right - from the family environment to the knowledgeable coaches, I just know Sydney is the perfect place for me to help achieve my long-term goals, which is to be the best version of myself and hopefully one day play in the NBA.

He added the successful transition of two-time champion and reigning NBL MVP Xavier Cooks to the NBA played a role in his decision.

"I've seen the impact they've had on someone like Xavier Cooks and now he's in the NBA with the Washington Wizards, so I know the pathway is there.

"To be honest, I can't wait to get back to Sydney and start working with the coaches and my teammates on all parts of my game.

"They've got great structures there and I'm prepared to do whatever is needed of me to help the club win a third straight title."

Kings CEO Chris Pongrass believes the recent success of the club can create the best possible platform for Amir to succeed.

"We can't wait for him to arrive back in Sydney, after a couple of years abroad, and for him to start working with Chase [Buford] and our great coaching staff," Pongrass said.

"By playing in the US, Klairus has largely flown under the radar – however he was one of the premier high school prospects in the nation.

"We believe he can be a real asset to our program and are heavily invested in his long-term development."

The Kings first take to the floor in NBL24 against the Illawarra Hawks on Saturday, September 30.