NBL Off-Season Set for Coaching Carousel, South East Melbourne Phoenix Secure Josh King Long-Term
The upcoming off-season in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) is poised to be a period of significant change for several coaching positions, but the South East Melbourne Phoenix are bucking the trend with a landmark deal for head coach Josh King.
The Phoenix ownership group has demonstrated a strong commitment to King, recognizing his impact on the team’s defensive identity and current standing near the top of the league. According to ESPN’s Olgun Uluc, the organization is prepared to offer King a contract extending beyond the typical length seen in NBL coaching agreements. “The ownership of the South East Melbourne Phoenix really likes Josh King,” Uluc stated on The Marketplace, presented by Paywise. “They’re preparing a very long term offer for him. In my 10 years covering the NBL, I don’t know if I’ve heard of an offer like this.”
NBL champion Pete Hooley echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the stability King brings to 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.” King currently boasts a 37-20 record with the Phoenix, solidifying his position as one of the league’s top coaches.
Adelaide 36ers Face Critical Decision on Mike Wells’ Future
While the Phoenix solidify their leadership, the Adelaide 36ers are facing increasing scrutiny and potential upheaval. Reports suggest growing pressure on current coach Mike Wells, particularly following recent losses. Uluc noted, “Things have gotten very noisy around Adelaide…there is obvious pressure on Mike Wells.”
The team’s primary focus is maximizing the remaining career window of veteran star Bryce Cotton, who is 33 years old. Despite being under contract for the next season, the 36ers are evaluating whether Wells is the coach to deliver immediate success. The question facing the organization is whether to retain Wells or pursue a coach with a more established winning record in the NBL.
Coaching Uncertainty Looms for Multiple NBL Teams
The coaching landscape extends beyond Adelaide, with several other teams potentially seeking new leadership. Melbourne United’s Dean Vickerman has reportedly been exploring opportunities in Asia, particularly in Japan, where interest in his services is growing. According to Uluc, United would likely support Vickerman’s pursuit of new experiences if he desires a change.
Brisbane Bullets are confirmed to be seeking a new coach for the upcoming season. Initial discussions with former Sydney Kings coach Will Weaver reached advanced stages, with a contract reportedly prepared, but Uluc expressed skepticism about the deal’s finalization. Conversations with Trevor Gleeson also appear to have stalled, leaving the Bullets still searching for a clear direction.
In Queensland, Adam Forde of the Cairns Taipans may benefit from seeking opportunities elsewhere, according to Uluc. Illawarra’s Justin Tatum, however, is reportedly content and committed to remaining in the NBL.
Conversely, Uluc anticipates that John Rillie, Brian Goorjian, and Scott Roth will return to lead their respective teams – Perth, Sydney, and Tasmania – in the next season.
Player Movement and International Prospects
Beyond the coaching changes, the NBL is also anticipating significant player movement. Several names are generating buzz as potential free agents, including Jack McVeigh, Will McDowell-White, and Taran Armstrong.
Additionally, the league is monitoring the status of Australian stars playing overseas, and when they might return to the NBL. “
The Breakers may also see a shift, as Petteri Koponen’s future in Auckland is uncertain, with the club prioritizing a stronger New Zealand influence throughout the organization. Despite this, Hooley believes Koponen could be a valuable asset to another franchise.
As Round 21 of the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season begins on Thursday with Cairns hosting Melbourne, the league is clearly heating up both on and off the court, setting the stage for a dynamic and transformative off-season.
