Vickerman, Goriss to take reins for Trans-Tasman

The upcoming AUS v NZL Trans-Tasman Throwdown will mark the first integration of a new structure for the Opals and Boomers, with Paul Goriss and Dean Vickerman stepping in for Adam Caporn and Sandy Brondello.

Goriss, currently coaching the , participated in the recent Opals camp in Melbourne and now prepares for his first campaign in this leadership role.

"It's exciting to be stepping into the lead role and I appreciate the trust and confidence Sandy has in me to lead the Opals while she is head coaching in the WNBA," said Goriss.

"I am very grateful for the opportunity and I take this role very seriously because of the history of success of the Opals, and all those former Opals who have paved the way for our current group of players, and all the coaches who helped build the program to where it is today—a world-class team with a very strong culture."

Paul Goriss Leads the Opals

Goriss, current coach of the UC Canberra Capitals, was recently involved in the Opals camp in Melbourne and is preparing for his first campaign at the helm.

"It's exciting to be stepping into the lead role and I appreciate the trust and confidence Sandy has in me to lead the Opals, while she is head coaching in the WNBA," said Goriss.

"I am very grateful for the opportunity, and I take this role very seriously because of the history of success of the Opals, the former players who paved the way, and the coaches who built the program into the world-class team it is today."

Goriss will lead the Opals alongside Shannon Seebohm and Kristi Harrower.

"I love the style of play Sandy has implemented. It’s fresh, modern, and suits our current group," said Goriss.

"The Trans-Tasman series will be pivotal in our Asia Cup preparation. It’s crucial to build chemistry, evaluate our players, and emphasize both ends of the court."

"We will use the series to execute what we did at camp and continue to learn and improve.”

Dean Vickerman Steps In for the Boomers

Dean Vickerman will serve as Associate Head Coach for the Boomers during the Trans-Tasman Throwdown in the absence of, who remains in the U.S. with the Washington Wizards.

Vickerman will be joined by long-time member of the Boomers coaching staff Jacob Chance, who recently led the team to an undefeated Asia Cup qualifying campaign as interim head coach.

Also joining the staff is, assistant coach with the Perth Wildcats, who returned to Australia in 2025 after coaching at California Baptist University. A former U17 & U19 national player, Martin brings both experience and a fresh perspective to the national team.

The AUS v NZL Trans-Tasman Throwdown tips off in Adelaide on Wednesday.

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