Wells steps down

Mike Wells has informed the Adelaide 36ers that he is stepping down from his role as Head Coach, bringing an end to a highly successful two-year tenure with the club. 

Wells departs with an impressive 58 per cent win-loss record, securing 41 victories from 71 games, and guiding the Sixers to the brink of a long-awaited NBL Championship. In NBL26, the Sixers pushed the Sydney Kings to a deciding fifth game in the Championship Series, falling just short in overtime after coming within seconds of securing the title in regulation.

He also took the side to the final of the inaugural Ignite Cup in-season tournament in NBL26.

Wells’ impact was immediate upon arriving ahead of the NBL25 season, initially as an assistant coach before being elevated to the head coach role and leading the club to its first finals appearance in seven years. He built on that momentum in NBL26, helping deliver 27 wins from 41 games - the club’s best single-season result since the championship-winning “Invincibles” of 1986.

Just last week, Wells signed a contract extension through to the end of NBL28 but said the decision to step down came after a lot of reflection.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built in Adelaide over the past two seasons,” Wells said.

“The players, staff and fans have made my family and me welcome. Adelaide is a special place, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the 36ers.

“But having spent some time back home in Utah with my sons, seeing my dad who is getting older, realising I have been away from family for much of the past three decades, I know the decision to step down to be with my family is right.”

Wells said he would remain a 36ers supporter, watching on from afar with a sense of pride.

“NBL26 was an outstanding season for our group, both collectively and individually,” he said.

“To see Bryce Cotton secure his sixth MVP, Flynn Cameron earn Most Improved honours, and both Bryce and Zylan Cheatham recognised in the All-NBL First and Second Teams speaks volumes about the talent and commitment within this program.

“I leave with a heavy heart, but also with a great sense of pride in what we’ve built together.

“This organisation is in a strong position moving forward with a talented roster and a cultural foundation that I believe will drive sustained success in NBL27 and beyond. I’ll be watching on with genuine excitement."

Adelaide 36ers Executive Chairman Grant Kelley said the club was disappointed to lose Wells but fully supported his decision.

“Mike and I have developed a very strong relationship over a relatively short period of time, so this is a decision I receive with genuine sadness,” Mr Kelley said.

“He is not only an outstanding coach, but a person of great character who has made a significant impact on our club, our players and the broader basketball community in South Australia.

“While we would have loved Mike to continue leading the program, we completely understand and respect his decision to prioritise his family.

“On behalf of the Adelaide 36ers, I want to sincerely thank Mike, his wife Kerri and their sons for everything they have given to this club and to basketball in this state.”

Prior to joining Adelaide, Wells spent 26 years coaching in the NBA, holding roles with the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs and Charlotte Hornets. He was also part of the coaching set-up with Team USA, including with the gold medal-winning 2000 Olympic team.

The Adelaide 36ers will immediately commence the search for a new head coach.