Dynamic duo chasing fourth ring together

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Dynamic duos win championships, and the Adelaide 36ers are banking on new head coach Trevor Gleeson and Bryce Cotton capturing their Perth Wildcats glory days in NBL27.

The tag is usually reserved for players, but Gleeson, 57, and Cotton, 33, won three rings together in 2017, 2019 and 2020 and are a formidable partnership.

“I've been watching from afar and with the team, and where it's headed, it's an exciting time,” Gleeson said.

“Adelaide's vision for the future and what is it was looking for in a head coach really aligned with my principles and my experience.

“I'm excited, and I am looking forward to the challenge of building the 36ers into a Championship team.

“Obviously, I've got strong ties with Bryce Cotton, so that's always an incentive to have arguably the best player in NBL history.”

Gleeson left the NBL for the NBA in 2021 as an assistant at the Toronto Raptors and moved to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023.

He coached the Chiba Jets in Japan’s B.League between 2024 and 2026.

The 36ers were just a defensive rebound away from winning the NBL26 championship, but eventually fell in overtime, 3-2, in the Grand Final Series to the Sydney Kings.

Former head coach Mike Wells was expected to return for NBL27 but decided to stay in Utah.

It opened the door for one of the league's most winningest coaches to make a storybook return to the NBL and to reunite with six-time MVP Cotton.

Adelaide 36ers Executive Chairman Grant Kelley said the club was thrilled to secure a coach with Gleeson’s pedigree and track record of success.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Trevor to the Adelaide 36ers,” Adelaide 36ers boss Grant Kelley said.

“Trevor is a coach of the highest calibre.

“He is a proven winner, an outstanding leader, and someone who understands what it takes to build a championship program.

“His record speaks for itself - sustained success, multiple titles, and an ability to get the very best out of players and staff.

“This is an important appointment at a time when we have a roster built for success.

“We believe he is the right person to lead our basketball program and drive the standards and culture required to compete for championships year after year.”

Gleeson is expected to arrive in Adelaide next month players and fans

"My time with the Chiba Jets has come to an end. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Chiba Jets for giving me the opportunity to serve as head coach.

"During my tenure, we were able to create many wonderful memories, which would never have been possible without the support of the players, coaching staff and front office. During my two years, the team continued to fight despite suffering many injuries, and I am very proud of their fighting spirit.

"To the players: I believe the relationships we built together will last a lifetime. I am truly grateful for the effort, belief, trust and perseverance you showed during my time here.

"To the coaching staff and support staff: I was always inspired by your work ethic and passion for the team. No matter what difficulties or setbacks you faced, you stepped forward, tackled the challenges at a higher level and overcame them. I am grateful for your loyalty, hard work and friendship.

"Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the Chiba Jets fans across the country.

"The sight of LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY bathed in red and packed to capacity, and the support that made even away games feel like home, was truly special.

"Throughout my tenure, you all treated me with warmth, love and support. I cannot express my gratitude enough for that.

"Japan will always remain a special place in my heart, and I will continue to remember my days here with deep affection."