THEY are the direct Twitter messages that helped the Sydney Kings ramp up serious talks to land Andrew Bogut’s prized signature.

On the day the Daily Telegraph broke the story revealing the Kings’ interest in luring Bogut home in early January, the veteran big man contacted this reporter to say he’d changed managers.

The Kings were also unaware that Bogut had a new manager. This prompted Sydney Managing Director Jeff Van Groningen to ask this scribe to send Andrew a private message about the franchise’s interest in him.

Van Groningen also asked to pass on his mobile and a request for Andrew’s personal email address.

Bogut swiftly responded, saying: “Send through the email and I’ll get in touch”.

This brief twitter discussion then sparked serious conversations between Bogut and Sydney officials.

Not that Van Groningen needed any help.

He has known Bogut for 13 years, dating back to his rookie years in the NBA, and the pair regularly discussed the lure of playing in Australia’s domestic league.

But their conversations weren’t just about basketball.

Van Groningen and club owner Harvey Lister also spoke to Bogut about their business vision for him.

This unique approach played a vital role in securing the veteran NBA big man on a historic two-year deal.

Bogut was “close” to signing with Melbourne United, but says Sydney’s focus on business was hugely appealing.

The Kings’ plan also included part ownership of the franchise when he retired.

Bogut revealed there is a 10 per cent share in Sydney waiting for him, while he could take up to a 50 per cent share once he finishes playing.

In the end, the Kings’ emphasis on business proved a masterstroke to bring Bogut home.