TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The New Taipei Kings (新北國王) unveiled a defensive-focused strategy Tuesday (Sept. 30) as new head coach John Patrick prepares the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL, 台灣職籃), Taiwan's premier basketball league, champions for another title run without retired star Jeremy Lin (林書豪). Patrick emphasized transforming Taiwanese players' defensive mindset during the season-opening press conference, signaling a tactical shift for the defending champions. The coaching change marks a pivotal transition following significant roster departures.
The Kings have dominated Taiwan's professional basketball scene for two consecutive years but face unprecedented challenges with multiple key departures. Lin's retirement, combined with former head coach Ryan Marchand and popular import Kenny Manigault's departures, creates significant leadership voids for the defending champions. Patrick acknowledged Lin as the greatest Asian player ever and personal inspiration while planning to evaluate potential successors for the vacant leadership role.
Patrick noted some Taiwanese players lack defensive awareness, stressing the fundamental need to prioritize defense as a gradual but essential transformation. Kings' General Manager James Mao (毛加恩) expressed confidence in Patrick's defensive system, describing the upcoming season as bringing a fresh organizational feeling. Mao highlighted players Lin Yen-ting (林彦廷) and Joseph Lin (林書緯) as potential defensive standouts capable of embodying the new strategic approach. ◼