Goorjian calls time on Boomers reign after Paris exit

The Boomers are in the market for a new head coach after Brian Goorjian confirmed he is stepping down after a heartbreaking Paris Olympics exit.

Australia’s Games basketball campaign ended in a five-point quarter-final loss to Serbia on Tuesday, despite veteran guard Patty Mills’ heroics in sending the game to overtime.

The Boomers built a huge 24-point lead during the first half but couldn’t resist a record fightback from Serbia, led by NBA superstar Nikola Jokic.

Hours later, Goorjian told reporters outside the Olympic precinct his time as coach was over.

“This was always the plan … I think I’ve been an important piece of this process and it’s time to move away,” Goorjian said.

“When I get off the plane, I’ll walk away feeling proud of my contribution over the 16 years I’ve been involved with the Boomers.”

Goorjian led the Boomers to four Olympic tournaments in his two stints at the helm, from 2002-08 and 2020-24.

The 71-year-old famously steered the Boomers to their first Olympic medal when they claimed bronze in Tokyo.

He then oversaw a rebuilding of the roster, which was “maxed out” after Tokyo, and believes the future is bright for the Boomers.

“I like the culture, I like where the team’s at,” Goorjian said.

“I like the group I finished with, and I like the group I’ve left moving forward with – including staff.

“I just think it’s a really exciting time for Australian basketball and if you viewed these Games, there’s nothing I’m embarrassed about.”

Goorjian will now turn his eye to the NBL after signing a three-year deal to return to the Sydney Kings.

Goorjian led the Kings to three consecutive titles from 2003 to 2005.

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