In deeply unfortunate news for the Sydney Kings and the broader basketball community, star forward Bul Kuol has been diagnosed with a serious illness, sidelining him indefinitely. The announcement came via an official statement from the Kings’ front office on Monday morning, sending a wave of shock and concern through the NBL and beyond.
The statement did not disclose the specific nature of Kuol’s illness, citing respect for the player’s privacy and the ongoing medical evaluation. However, it confirmed that the 27-year-old will be taking a leave of absence from all team activities while focusing on his health and recovery.
“Bul is not just a key player for us — he’s a leader, a competitor, and someone who embodies what it means to wear the purple and gold,” said Kings head coach Mahmoud Abdelfattah. “This is a tough day for the club, but our number one priority is supporting Bul in every way we can. We’re all standing with him.”
Kuol, who joined the Sydney Kings ahead of the 2024–25 season after a breakout stint with Cairns Taipans and a short tenure with Melbourne United, has quickly become a fan favorite. Known for his defensive tenacity, hustle plays, and ability to knock down clutch perimeter shots, Kuol has been a driving force in the Kings’ playoff push this season.
In just 18 games with Sydney, he was averaging 12.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game — but his impact went beyond the stat sheet. His energy, intensity, and leadership by example made him a vital piece of the Kings’ locker room culture.
Fans took to social media in droves as the news broke, flooding Kuol’s Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) pages with messages of love and support. The hashtags #PrayForBul and #StayStrongKuol began trending in Australia by mid-afternoon.
Kuol’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. Born in Egypt to South Sudanese parents and raised in Victoria, Australia, Kuol’s rise in professional basketball came through grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement. After playing college basketball in the United States at Detroit Mercy, he returned home and quickly established himself as one of the most exciting two-way players in the NBL.
He also made headlines in 2023 for his contributions to the South Sudan national team, helping them qualify for their first-ever Olympic Games. His commitment to representing his heritage, while also being a proud ambassador for Australian basketball, has earned him admiration across continents.
Sydney Kings CEO Chris Pongrass said the organization is doing everything it can to assist Kuol and his family during this challenging time.
“We’ve been in constant contact with Bul and those closest to him. His spirit remains incredibly strong, and he’s surrounded by love and support,” Pongrass said. “Our entire club, from players to staff to fans, is behind him 100 percent.”
There is currently no timeline for his return to basketball activities, and the club has indicated they will not rush any decisions. Medical specialists continue to evaluate Kuol’s condition and treatment plan.
With the playoffs approaching, the Kings now face the task of reconfiguring their forward rotation in Kuol’s absence. However, the team’s focus remains firmly on Kuol’s well-being rather than on-the-court logistics.
As the NBL community rallies behind one of its brightest stars, one message continues to resonate: Bul Kuol is more than an athlete — he’s a fighter.
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