The National Basketball League (NBL) is bracing for a significant off-season of coaching changes, with several teams poised to make moves. While some franchises are focused on securing their current leadership, others are actively evaluating options for the future.
South East Melbourne Phoenix appear set to buck the trend of instability, with reports indicating they are preparing a landmark, long-term deal for head coach Josh King. ESPN’s Olgun Uluc revealed the club’s ownership is highly impressed with King’s performance and the defensive identity he has instilled. “The ownership of the South East Melbourne Phoenix really likes Josh King,” Uluc stated. “They want to go all-in and build around King’s image and are prepared to put an offer in front of him that I’m told is longer than usual coach’s contracts. In my 10 years covering the NBL, I don’t know if I’ve heard of an offer like this.”
The potential extension is viewed favorably by NBL champion Pete Hooley, who emphasized the value of stability for the Phoenix. “There was a lot of turnover in the Phoenix for a couple years, so to have that security, stability and direction [is amazing],” Hooley said. “This is the foundation of not only contending this season but every year he is at the helm. This is a really positive move by the Phoenix.” King currently boasts a 37-20 record with the Phoenix.
In contrast to the stability in Melbourne, the Adelaide 36ers are facing increasing pressure and scrutiny regarding the future of head coach Mike Wells. Uluc reported a growing sense of unease surrounding Wells’ position, particularly in light of recent losses. “Things have gotten very noisy around Adelaide,” Uluc explained. “There wasn’t this full blown meeting of leadership in the team that’s discussing Mike Wells’ future in the immediate, but there is obvious pressure on Mike Wells.”
The 36ers’ situation is further complicated by the age and potential of star player Bryce Cotton, who is 33 years old. Uluc suggested the team must carefully consider its options to maximize Cotton’s remaining prime years. “We are at a point where this team has to sit back after the season’s finished and see what the best option is to maximise Bryce Cotton,” Uluc said. “While Wells is contracted for next season, this is their window and they need a coach that’s going to help them win now. The question is, is Mike Wells that guy or perhaps a more proven winner in an NBL environment?”
Another team potentially in the market for a new coach is Melbourne United, with Dean Vickerman reportedly open to opportunities in Asia, specifically Japan. Uluc noted that Japanese teams have expressed interest in Vickerman, who has achieved considerable success in the NBL. “Let’s preface this by saying this is something that had been in the rumor mill for a few years that Dean Vickerman is open to potential opportunities in Asia, potentially Japan,” Uluc said. “It’s important to note, there are Japanese teams who are interested in Dean [once again], who’s achieved everything he can here in the NBL and might be keen to maximise his earnings potential and have a new experience overseas.” Uluc also indicated that United would likely be supportive of Vickerman’s decision if he chooses to pursue an opportunity abroad.
Meanwhile, the Brisbane Bullets have already confirmed they will be seeking a new coach for the upcoming season. While initial discussions with former Sydney Kings coach Will Weaver reportedly reached advanced stages, Uluc expressed skepticism about a deal being finalized. “They were in deep conversations with Will Weaver and had reached, from what I understand, the advanced stages [of negotiations] to the point where they had a contract ready,” Uluc said. “But every day that he doesn’t sign a contract, it lowers my confidence that Will Weaver will be the head coach of that team.” Interest in Trevor Gleeson also appears to have cooled.
Further north, Adam Forde’s future with the Cairns Taipans is uncertain, with Uluc suggesting it may be beneficial for Forde to explore other opportunities. “It’s probably in his [Adam Forde’s] best interest to go and spread his wings, try another opportunity” away from the Taipans, Uluc stated.
Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum is expected to remain with the club, as he “is really proud, and would not want to leave the NBL after a season like this.” Coaches John Rillie (Perth Wildcats), Brian Goorjian (Sydney Kings), and Scott Roth (Tasmania JackJumpers) are all expected to return to their respective teams.
Looking at the New Zealand Breakers, Uluc reported the club is prioritizing a strong New Zealand influence throughout the organization, which could potentially lead to the departure of Petteri Koponen. Despite this, Hooley believes Koponen could be a valuable asset to another franchise. “I’d love to see coach Koponen stay in the league if that’s the case,” Hooley said. “You can kind of understand the decision that New Zealand wants to go in, but it would have been great to see what he could have done if everybody were healthy. I think coach Kop’s a terrific coach, and we’ve seen that, if you go back to the start of last season, before the FIBA Break and everything changed.”
Round 21 of the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season is set to begin on , with Cairns hosting Melbourne at 7:30 PM AEDT, live on ESPN.
