According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, Australia’s national men’s basketball coach, Brian Goorjian, is standing firm in his support for NBA star Josh Giddey’s inclusion in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Giddey, currently under scrutiny by the Newport Beach Police Department and the NBA, faces allegations regarding an improper relationship with a teenage girl.
Giddey going through troubling times
Coach Goorjian, who flew to the United States to meet with Australia’s NBA-based players, including Giddey, has a clear message of reassurance for the young player.
The meeting is scheduled for Friday, December 15 (AEDT), and Goorjian aims to provide much-needed support amid a challenging period for Giddey.
Giddey’s on-court performance seems affected as teams deliberately challenge him to take shots from the outside.
The recent 110-101 loss to the Houston Rockets reflected this defensive strategy, with the crowd making it impossible for Giddey to ignore the global story surrounding the investigations.
Australia’s coach expressed confidence in Giddey’s abilities and stated his desire to have the talented playmaker on the Boomers’ team for Paris 2024.
While the Australian Olympic Committee refrained from commenting on the potential impact of the police investigation on Giddey’s selection, Coach Goorjian, a long-time acquaintance of the Giddey family, stands firmly behind the player.
He recognizes Giddey’s significance in Australia’s pursuit of gold at the upcoming Olympics.
Asked if he supports Giddey in this troubled time, the national team coach commented:
“A hundred per cent I do but like everyone else, I can’t control the [US] legal side,”Goorjian said.
“This team represents the country and it’s an important time for everyone. I have to cover all positions, all players, in case someone is injured or can’t play. In every spot, there is a back-up plan.”
Coach Goorjian commited to supporting Giddey
In response to the allegations, Coach Goorjian reached out to Giddey, offering a message of support.
“The first thing I did was message him… I also messaged the father,” Goorjian said.
“I just sent them a paragraph of support, right away I get, “Thanks, appreciate it”.
“I think he needs constant support right now, he doesn’t need to respond but just to let him know that I’m thinking of him if needs anything… I don’t know what happened but I know he is a special kid from a special family and he is a Boomer so it’s my time to step up. Not make a phone call and then say hope it all works out for you.”
Reflecting on Giddey’s character, Goorjian highlighted the player’s resilience and commitment, recalling his positive response after being cut from the Tokyo Olympics.
“I cut him from the [Tokyo] Olympics, and he didn’t come back with ‘here’s some baggage you can wear,’ he came back with a hug and ‘I’m in’ for the World Cup. So it’s my turn now,” remarked Coach Goorjian, underscoring his commitment to supporting Giddey during this challenging time.
Giddey, who has chosen not to comment on the allegations, remains a key player for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Basketball Australia has also refrained from commenting on Giddey’s Olympic status, citing the ongoing investigations.
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