NBL fines Bogut over alleged body-shaming comments aimed at 36ers owner

Former NBA star Andrew Bogut has been fined $9,500 by the National Basketball League (NBL) for allegedly body-shaming Adelaide 36ers owner Grant Kelley. The Adelaide 36ers had lodged an official complaint with the NBL in March, accusing Bogut of making "persistent and repeated personal attacks" against Kelley.

The fine stems from an investigation conducted under the NBL's Code of Conduct and Social Media Policy. Bogut, who is also an assistant coach and co-owner of the Sydney Kings, reportedly made several weight-related insults towards Kelley. During the 2025/26 championship series between the Sydney Kings and the Adelaide 36ers, Bogut allegedly shared an image on Twitter implying a likeness between Kelley and the character Peter Griffin from "Family Guy." He also insinuated on Instagram that Kelley had not confronted him after a game because he was heading to a fast-food outlet.

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persistent and repeated personal attacks

Further reports indicate that Bogut made comments about Kelley's weight immediately after the second game of the series during an altercation. Bogut, considered one of Australia's greatest basketball players, retains the right to appeal the NBL's sanction. The Sydney Kings released a statement acknowledging the NBL's decision and expressing support for Bogut throughout the process, stating no further comment would be made at this time.

The Sydney Kings won the championship series, securing their sixth NBL title, with a decisive fifth-game victory in overtime in early April. Bogut is set to continue on the coaching staff for the 2026/27 season. Meanwhile, the Adelaide 36ers, who narrowly missed their first championship since 2002, have key players including Bryce Cotton, Isaac Humphries, John Jenkins, and Zylan Cheatham on their roster.

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We are aware the NBL has sanctioned and issued a fine to assistant coach Andrew Bogut regarding commentary during the final series. The club is supporting Andrew throughout this process and no further comment will be made at this time.