Kings Release Rowland

The Sydney Kings have announced that import point guard EJ Rowland has been released from his National Basketball League contract, effective immediately.

Kings Head Coach Brian Goorjian confirmed the 23-year-old from St Mary’s University in California had been cut after a series of poor performances in recent weeks and a realisation that the likeable guard wasn’t the right fit for the Kings young outfit.

“EJ is a fine young man and a good basketball player, but the piece of the puzzle we need doesn’t work for him and doesn’t work for us,” said Goorjian.

“I just think that as time has gone it has become real apparent that he doesn’t fit what we need. We need someone that is going to run our team and create for these guys and that’s not naturally his game. This is a young team and with the changes that have been made that position needs a more experienced guy to run our club.”

“As the season has gone on things have been getting worse, the pressure on him and on the team has meant everyone has been feeling uncomfortable, which is taking a toll. This decision gives him an opportunity to get on with his career.”

“We’re definitely working 24/7 on finding EJ’s replacement and our requirement is someone with experience who can lead the team.”

“We also clearly have a problem putting points on the board so we need someone that when the game is tight, we can put the ball in his hands and he can get it done and someone who displays a lot of leadership around the court.”

The club expects to make an announcement on Rowland’s replacement in the coming days.

Rowland averaged 12.7ppg, 3.1apg and 2.0spg in 12 regular season games.