Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Sydney Kings assistant coach and co-owner Andrew Bogut has been handed a $9500 fine by the NBL after body-shaming Adelaide 36ers owner Grant Kelley online and reportedly confronting him in person during the 2025/26 NBL championship series.
The Adelaide 36ers lodged a formal complaint in March, accusing Bogut of making "persistent and repeated personal attacks" towards Kelley, which triggered an investigation under the NBL's Code of Conduct and Social Media Policy.
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What Bogut Did During the Championship Series
During the series between Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers, Bogut shared an image on Twitter that appeared to compare Kelley to Peter Griffin, the cartoon character from animated series Family Guy.
He also posted on Instagram suggesting Kelley had avoided confronting him after Game 3 by heading to fast-food chain Hungry Jack's. Bogut reportedly also made comments about Kelley's weight directly after Game 2 during a face-to-face altercation between the two.
Kings Back Bogut, Appeal Option Remains Open
The Sydney Kings issued a statement acknowledging the sanction but offered full support to Bogut.
"We are aware the NBL has sanctioned and issued a fine to Assistant Coach Andrew Bogut regarding commentary during the final series," the Kings wrote. "The club is supporting Andrew throughout this process and no further comment will be made at this time."
Bogut, a former NBA star widely regarded as one of Australia's greatest-ever basketball players, retains the right to appeal the ruling.
What's Next for Both Clubs
Sydney Kings claimed a sixth NBL title with an overtime win in the decisive Game 5 in early April. Bogut remains on the coaching staff for the 2026/27 season, with Xavier Cooks, Kendric Davis, Torrey Craig, and Matthew Dellavedova all returning for the championship defence.
Adelaide 36ers came agonisingly close to their first title since 2002. Key players Bryce Cotton, Isaac Humphries, John Jenkins, and Zylan Cheatham remain at the club. For more on the NBL, visit the NBL's official website. Want to tip NBL games? Join a competition on SmartTips and compete with friends today.
