Cooks, who previously played in Japan's B League, returned to the Kings for the 2024-25 season after a brief stint with the Washington Wizards.

Cooks had withdrawn unexpectedly from the Kings' final regular-season game before the announcement of his suspension, citing 'personal leave'.

At 29 years old, Cooks is regarded as a leading frontcourt player in the NBL, having made a significant impact on the court this season.

In addition to his club success, Cooks has also represented Australia as a member of the Boomers during the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Basketball Australia announced the immediate suspension on February 11, 2025, only two days before the Kings' crucial Qualifier against Adelaide.

Xavier Cooks, a prominent forward for the Sydney Kings, has been suspended due to a potential doping violation just ahead of the National Basketball League (NBL) post-season.

Both the NBL and the Sydney Kings have declined to provide further comments, echoing the request for privacy.

As a result of the suspension, Cooks is set to miss the Kings' elimination final against the Adelaide 36ers on February 13, 2025, where he has averaged 15.4 points and 8.7 rebounds per game this season.

Recognized as one of the top players in Australian basketball, Cooks was named NBL MVP in 2023 and Grand Final MVP in 2022, contributing significantly to the Kings' championship victories.

Just days before his suspension, Cooks was honored in the All-NBL Second Team at an awards ceremony held on February 9, 2025.

The suspension follows a positive test for a banned substance, confirmed by Basketball Australia and Sport Integrity Australia, and is a mandatory provisional measure under the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy.

Basketball Australia stated that the situation is progressing under the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy and requested privacy for all parties involved.