Sydney Kings' star import Josh Childress lived up to the hype on Saturday night, delivering an explosive performance as his team began the season with a narrow win over Wollongong.

The Hawks beat Sydney in all four meetings last season but Childress' 26-point haul gave the Kings the ascendancy.

Brilliant start: Josh Childress on Saturday night. Credit:Getty Images

"Coach has been on me to stay aggressive," Childress said after the game.

He followed orders well, using his 2.03 metres to assert dominance in the paint.