Kevin Lisch announces retirement

Sydney Kings captain and two-time NBL MVP Kevin Lisch has confirmed he’s played his last game, officially calling time on his illustrious basketball career. 

Lisch will hang up his basketball shoes after playing for 11 years, across three different NBL clubs – the Perth Wildcats, the Illawarra Hawks and the Sydney Kings – as well as several stints playing internationally. 

He finishes his career as one of the greats of our game; twice winning the NBL MVP (2012, 2016), winner of an NBL Championship and NBL Grand Final MVP award (2010), NBL top scorer (2012), a 3x Gordon Ellis Medal winner (Perth Wildcats MVP), the Illawarra Hawks MVP (2016), Best Defensive Player of the Year (2016), a 3x All-NBL First Team recipient (2012, 2013, and 2016), not to mention the Championships and accolades he picked up overseas as well. As well as exceptional NBL career, the former US-import turned Aussie citizen was given the opportunity to show off his talents at the highest level with several call-ups to the Australian Boomers squad. He was an integral part of the Boomers Rio Olympics campaign which saw the team finish fourth, as well as representing the green and gold at several FIBA World Cup qualifiers. 

Modest as always, Lisch thanked those who had played important roles throughout his basketball journey.

"Through the Grace of God I was blessed to play this game and want to thank my wife Rachel, and children Benjamin, Sofia, Isabel, and Isaac who bring me so much joy and have been my biggest fans. My mom and dad and siblings Stephanie, Theresa, and Daniel have been instrumental in every aspect of my life and basketball career" Lisch said.

"I also want to thank all of my teammates, coaches, fans, and support staff that I have had the privilege to be around, and the NBL for the wonderful environment they have provided me". 

"In particular I’d like to thank Rob Beveridge and Warren Craig for their support and friendship, and I am grateful to all of the players and coaches that I competed against who helped me become a better basketball player throughout my journey".

"Lastly I’d like to thank Paul Smith, Chris Pongrass and the Kings organisation for their help during this decision process, and I’m looking forward to continuing my role with the Kings in a different capacity" Lisch said.

After sustaining an ankle injury early in NBL20 that led to an exacerbation of a pre-existing ankle condition, this resulted in Lisch requiring post-season ankle surgery, and the recommendation from multiple medical specialists that he should avoid further impact activities following the surgery.