Gleeson finally to reunite with Cotton at 36ers

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Trevor Gleeson is set to be unveiled as Adelaide 36ers’ new head coach in the coming days in a monumental reunion with six-time NBL MVP Bryce Cotton, writes Michael Randall from CODE Sports.

Amid reports the Sixers have tabled an offer to the five-time NBL champion, CODE Sports learned Gleeson and the club have agreed to terms on a multi-year deal.

Gleeson, who is understood to be on vacation after his second season leading Japan’s Chiba Jets ended, is a two-time NBL coach of the year who will take the reins from the departed Mike Wells.

It’s understood the 57-year-old recently informed Melbourne United he was out of the race to replace long-time coach Dean Vickerman.

Gleeson and Cotton forged an unbreakable bond in Perth, leading the Wildcats to three NBL titles (2017, ‘19, ‘20) together.

It's a remarkable turnaround for Gleeson and the 36ers' coaching situation after it was believed the club's hierarchy was sticking with Wells despite reports the former longtime NBA assistant coach was set to be given the boot following their grand finals series loss to the Sydney Kings.

ESPN's Olgun Uluc revealed on basketball.com.au podcast Cut to the Jase with former 36er Jason Cadee that Gleeson was "waiting" on the Adelaide job to become available to reunite with Cotton before the franchise initially pivoted to retain Wells.

Gleeson reportedly landing with the 36ers is the third major coach signing off the offseason following on from former Sydney Kings head coach joining the Brisbane Bullets and FIBA World Cup winning coach Gordon Herbert signing on to lead the New Zealand Breakers.

The movements follow the departures of Stu Lash, Petteri Koponen and Wells.

Gleeson joining the 36ers leaves just United without a coach for NBL27.

For the full story on CODE Sports Basketball, click here.