NBL Season Update: Player Injuries and Team Developments
The 2025-26 NBL season has seen significant developments, including season-ending injuries for key players Bul Kuol and David Duke Jr., alongside a public critique of Rob Baker II's defensive performance by New Zealand Breakers head coach Petteri Koponen.
Sydney Kings' Bul Kuol Out for Season
Sydney Kings guard Bul Kuol has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 NBL season following an ACL injury. The injury occurred during the Kings' January 2 loss to the Adelaide 36ers. Prior to the injury, Kuol was averaging 6.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game.
The Sydney Kings released a statement regarding Kuol's condition and his continued role with the team:
"Bul has been a defensive powerhouse for this group, bringing intensity and physicality. His impact this season has been immense. While he won’t be able to take the court, he will continue to play an important role from the bench, supporting the team and working with our medical staff on his recovery."
Currently, the Kings hold a 13-9 record, positioning them fourth on the ladder. The team has until January 25 to consider signing an import player, which would require the player to participate in seven games to be eligible for finals.
Perth Wildcats' David Duke Jr. Sidelined with Elbow Injury
Perth Wildcats import David Duke Jr. is expected to miss an extended period due to an elbow injury. Scans have revealed two torn ligaments, though surgery has been deemed unnecessary. The potential recovery time could be up to 12 weeks, with an earlier return possible depending on rehabilitation progress.
Duke Jr. sustained the injury in the first quarter of Perth’s December 28 game against the Adelaide 36ers. Through 12 games this season, he has averaged 12.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds. The Wildcats face a January 25 deadline if they opt to sign an Injury Replacement Player (IRP) who must play at least seven games to qualify for finals.
Breakers Coach Addresses Rob Baker II's Defense
Following the New Zealand Breakers' 99-91 defeat to the Perth Wildcats, head coach Petteri Koponen publicly commented on import Rob Baker II's defensive play. Baker II was benched during the third quarter and did not re-enter the game.
Koponen's post-match remarks included:
"This has been the question with Baker from the beginning of the season - can he guard? Today he showed he couldn’t. CarlÃn [Davison] did a much better job and it’s nothing personal. It’s basketball. On one end, Baker can make some shots, but at the same time you have to be able to play defence. Today he couldn’t."
The coach also extended his concerns to the team's overall defensive performance against elite perimeter players in the league. Rob Baker II’s agent, Darrell Comer, responded to Koponen's comments, stating, "I am completely against the idea of players and coaches criticising each other negatively in the media... Rob will continue to be a complete professional through this situation and work hard to help the team win when given the opportunity. I’m sure he’s motivated more than ever to step it up defensively."
Baker II has played 22 games for the Breakers, averaging 10.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, with a 40.2 percent three-point shooting accuracy. The Breakers currently hold an 8-14 record, placing them eighth on the ladder, outside the play-in positions.