The NBL coaching landscape is on the brink of a seismic shift, and it’s not just about wins and losses—it’s about the future of the league. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some teams are doubling down on stability, others are teetering on the edge of radical change. Could this off-season rewrite the playbook entirely?
On the latest episode of The Marketplace, presented by Paywise, the panel dives into the whirlwind of coaching changes that could define the upcoming off-season. With rumors swirling and contracts expiring, the NBL is poised for a dramatic reshuffle. But not every team is caught in the storm. Take the South East Melbourne Phoenix, for instance, who are reportedly preparing a groundbreaking deal for head coach Josh King. According to ESPN’s Olgun Uluc, the Phoenix ownership is all-in on King, whose defensive-minded approach has propelled the team near the top of the league.
And this is the part most people miss: the offer on the table isn’t just long-term—it’s unprecedented. “In my 10 years covering the NBL, I don’t know if I’ve heard of an offer like this,” Uluc remarked. The Phoenix are betting big on King’s vision, aiming to build a dynasty around his leadership. NBL champion Pete Hooley praised the move, highlighting the importance of stability after years of turnover. “This is the foundation for contending not just this season, but every year he’s at the helm,” Hooley said.
But while the Phoenix are securing their future, other teams are facing tough decisions. Take the Adelaide 36ers, for example. With recent losses piling up, head coach Mike Wells is under the microscope. Here’s the burning question: is Wells the right coach to maximize the potential of a 33-year-old Bryce Cotton, or should Adelaide look for a more proven winner? The noise around the team is deafening, and separating fact from fiction is nearly impossible. But one thing is clear: this off-season could be make-or-break for the 36ers.
Melbourne United, another powerhouse, might also see a change on the sidelines. Rumors have long swirled about head coach Dean Vickerman’s interest in opportunities abroad, particularly in Japan. With his NBL legacy secure, Vickerman could be tempted by a new challenge—and a potentially lucrative contract. “If he ever had the desire for something else, I believe United would be gracious and let him do his thing,” Uluc noted.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Brisbane Bullets are in full-on search mode. Despite reports of advanced negotiations with former Sydney Kings coach Will Weaver, Uluc is skeptical a deal will materialize. “Every day that he doesn’t sign a contract, it lowers my confidence,” he said. The Bullets’ coaching search remains wide open, leaving fans wondering who will take the reins next season.
Meanwhile, the Cairns Taipans’ Adam Forde might be better off exploring new opportunities, according to Uluc, while Illawarra’s Justin Tatum is determined to stay in the NBL despite a challenging season. Coaches like John Rillie (Perth), Brian Goorjian (Sydney), and Scott Roth (Tasmania) are expected to return, but the Breakers’ Petteri Koponen could be on his way out as the club pushes for a stronger New Zealand influence.
Here’s the real question for you: With so much uncertainty, which coaching move will have the biggest impact on the NBL’s future? Is stability the key to success, or is it time for bold changes? Let us know in the comments—this off-season is shaping up to be one for the history books. Don’t forget to check out The Marketplace for the full breakdown, and stay tuned as the NBL heats up both on and off the court!
