8
Nov
5 min read
Aussies in NBA history: Xavier Cooks
Australian Xavier Cooks #12 of the Washington Wizards poses for a portrait during media day at Capital One Arena on October 02, 2023 in Washington, DC. Photo: Rob Carr/Getty Images
Xavier Cooks: NBL MVP and champion signed with the Wizards
- 2023 NBL Most Valuable Player
- Two-time NBL Champion with Sydney Kings (2022, 2023)
- Made NBA debut with Washington Wizards in 2023
Xavier Cooks, a versatile Australian forward, rose to prominence in the NBL before achieving his NBA dream with a brief stint in Washington.
Key Details
Name: Xavier Cooks
Age: 29
Team(s): Sydney Kings (NBL); Washington Wizards (NBA); and Chiba Jets Funabashi (B.League)
Position: Forward
Size: 6'8" (203 cm)
Weight: 188 lbs (85 kg)
Xavier Cooks is a dynamic and versatile forward known for his all-around skillset and high basketball IQ. His length and athleticism allow him to impact the game on both ends of the floor, making him a valuable asset in multiple positions. Cooks possesses excellent court vision and passing ability for his size, often initiating offence and finding open teammates.
Defensively, Cooks is a disruptive force, using his long arms and quick feet to guard multiple positions effectively. His ability to switch on screens and contest shots makes him a valuable asset in modern basketball schemes that prioritise versatility and adaptability.
Career
Xavier Cooks' professional career began in Germany with s.Oliver Würzburg in 2018 after a stellar college career at Winthrop University. However, it was his return to Australia and joining the Sydney Kings in 2019 that truly launched his career to new heights.
In his first season with Sydney, Cooks showed promise but was limited by injuries. He bounced back strongly in the 2020-21 season, establishing himself as a key player for the Kings. The 2021-22 season proved to be a breakout year for Cooks, as he played a pivotal role in leading the Sydney Kings to the NBL championship, earning Grand Final MVP honours in the process.
Cooks' ascent continued in the 2022-23 NBL season, where he showcased his all-around brilliance. He achieved a rare feat by recording a triple-double against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, the first for a Sydney player since 2008. His consistent excellence throughout the season earned him the NBL Most Valuable Player award, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier players.
The crowning achievement of Cooks' NBL career came when he led the Sydney Kings to back-to-back championships in 2023. His dominant performances and leadership were instrumental in the Kings' success, further enhancing his reputation as one of Australia's top basketball talents.
Cooks' impressive performances in the NBL caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his signing with the Washington Wizards in March 2023. Although his time in the NBA was brief, Cooks made his debut against the Sacramento Kings and showed flashes of his potential, particularly in the Wizards' final game of the season where he recorded a double-double as a starter.
Following his NBA stint, Cooks joined the Chiba Jets Funabashi in Japan's B.League for the 2023-24 season. He continued to impress, averaging over 13 points and eight rebounds per game while helping the team secure the EASL championship.
Five Fast Facts
- Cooks was named to the Big South Conference All-Freshman Team during his college career at Winthrop University.
- He became Winthrop's all-time leading rebounder during his senior year.
- Cooks was voted into the Big South Men's Basketball All-Decade Team (2010-19).
- He won the New Zealand NBL MVP award while playing for the Wellington Saints in 2022.
- Cooks recorded the NBL's first triple-double since 2021 during the 2022-23 season.
Career Highlights Timeline
2014: Began college career at Winthrop University
2018: Named Big South Conference Player of the Year
2018: Signed first professional contract with s.Oliver Würzburg in Germany
2019: Joined the Sydney Kings in the NBL
2022: Won NBL championship and Grand Final MVP with Sydney Kings
2023: Named NBL Most Valuable Player
2023: Led Sydney Kings to back-to-back NBL championships
2023: Made NBA debut with Washington Wizards
2024: Won EASL championship with Chiba Jets Funabashi
Xavier Cooks' basketball journey is a testament to his perseverance and continuous improvement. From his college days at Winthrop to becoming an NBL MVP and champion, Cooks has consistently elevated his game at every level. His brief stint in the NBA with the Washington Wizards, although short-lived, demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level of basketball.
As Cooks returns to the Sydney Kings for the 2024-25 NBL season and beyond, he brings with him a wealth of experience from different leagues around the world. His versatile skillset, leadership qualities, and proven track record of success make him a valuable asset for any team. Whether he pursues another opportunity in the NBA or continues to dominate in the NBL, Xavier Cooks has firmly established himself as one of Australia's premier basketball talents.
