Brian Goorjian steps down as Australia’s basketball coach after four Olympics

Brian Goorjian, a California-born coach, has stepped down from his role as head coach of the Australian men's basketball team after an impressive tenure that spanned four Olympic Games. His first stint as national coach lasted from 2001 to 2008, during which he led the Boomers to significant achievements, including participation in the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics, a World Cup in 2006, and a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. Goorjian returned to the national team in 2020, where he made history by guiding Australia to its first Olympic medal, a bronze, at the Tokyo Games. In the most recent Olympics held in Paris, the team reached the quarterfinals but was eliminated by Serbia in overtime. Goorjian's influence on Australian basketball extends beyond his coaching role, as noted by former players like Andrew Gaze and Luc Longley. Gaze emphasized Goorjian's legacy in developing the sport and nurturing players, while Longley highlighted his ability to connect with multiple generations of athletes. Goorjian's understanding of the Australian basketball landscape, despite being American by birth, has allowed him to adapt and thrive in a changing environment. Following his departure from the national team, Goorjian will continue his coaching career with the Sydney Kings in the National Basketball League. His decision to step down marks the end of an era for the Boomers, but his contributions to the sport will be felt for years to come. The basketball community recognizes his significant impact on the game and the lives of many players he has coached. As Goorjian transitions to his new role, the future of Australian basketball looks promising, with a strong foundation built during his leadership. His legacy will likely inspire the next generation of players and coaches, ensuring that the sport continues to grow and evolve in Australia.