Adelaide 36ers head coach Mike Wells has stepped down from his role, a month after the team lost the NBL championship series to the Sydney Kings in the fifth and deciding game. Wells recently signed a contract extension for two more seasons but said the decision came after much reflection.
Wells, who replaced former coach Scott Ninnis two years ago, cited family reasons for his departure. He said spending time back home in Utah with his sons and seeing his aging father made him realize he had been away from family for much of the past three decades.
Adelaide 36ers executive chair Grant Kelley expressed disappointment but fully supported Wells' decision to prioritize his family. The club had dismissed rumors of Wells leaving a week after the championship loss.
The 36ers are now seeking an experienced head coach. General manager Matt Weston said his phone has been flooded with options and emphasized the need for a coach with significant experience in big games, as the team is built to win now.
Five-time championship-winning coach Trevor Gleeson, currently head coach of the Chiba Jets in Japan, is among the names mentioned as potential candidates.
