Makoi Commits to Kings

The Sydney Kings have re-signed development player Jackson Makoi to a two-year deal, with the second year including a place on the team’s main roster.

Makoi, 22, started his professional career with Vrijednosnice Osijek in Croatia in 2021, before moving to the Kings on a development player contract for NBL23.

He made a total of 15 appearances for the title-winners across the campaign, and has also been a crucial member of the South Sudanese national team since 2020, and was the starting point guard for the side at AfroBasket 2021.

The re-signing of the popular guard indicates just how highly rated he is within the four walls of the Kings, as Makoi is only expected to return from a serious knee injury around the middle of next season.

"Rehab has been very positive so far," Makoi said. "We're taking it one step at a time and not trying to rush the process.

"I have complete faith in our physio team and strength and conditioning coaches ... I'll be back hungrier than ever, with a chip on my shoulder and something to prove.

"I was welcomed with open arms into an organisation that made me feel comfortable ... [deciding to re-sign] was easy."

Kings CEO Chris Pongrass added he believes Makoi will prove to be a valuable member of the side as he continues to develop.

"Ever since Jackson arrived in Sydney his energy to improve each and every day has been contagious," Pongrass said. "We're thrilled to have him at our club for at least two more years.

"He's one of the competition's top young guards, [and] with international experience under his belt I believe he will be an asset to our playing group.

"I can't wait to see him back on the court and show everyone just how talented he is."

Makoi has joined Jaylin Galloway, Angus Glover and Kouat Noi in re-committing to the club in recent days. The quartet has joined DJ Vasiljevic, Jordi Hunter and Shaun Bruce as the Kings' current contracted players heading into NBL24.

NBL Free Agency opens on March 30.