Phoenix finalise coaching panel for NBL26

Ryan brings a wealth of international experience to the Phoenix, having coached at collegiate level in the NCAA, before holding senior roles in both the German Bundesliga and Turkish Super Basketball League. 

Gibson, one of Australia’s most decorated national players, has been a key figure at the Phoenix —first as a senior player, then as a development coach.  

The 38-year-old has played a critical role in nurturing emerging stars, including NBL Next Star and NBA draft prospect Malique Lewis. 

In further good news, Luke Brennan has re-committed to the club with a two-year extension, continuing his strong tenure in South East Melbourne.  

Brennan, a two-time NBL championship-winning assistant with Perth and recent Boomers assistant for the 2025 Asia Qualifiers, enters his third and fourth seasons with the club. 

Phoenix General Manager of Basketball Operations Simon Mitchell spoke to the trio’s appointments and the diverse strengths they each bring to the table to complement Josh King.  

“Luke and Adam have tremendous respect amongst the playing group and bring hundreds of games of NBL experience to the table. Their combination of basketball IQ, people skills, and work ethic are attributes our players thrive off” Mitchell said.  

“Dan brings his own international coaching experience to the coaching staff in NBL26. He has worked with Josh previously and has his trust and respect, and we look forward to him adding his fresh perspective and methods to the mix.”    

Luke Brennan – Assistant Coach 

• Assistant Coach, Australian Boomers (2025) 
• 2x NBL Champion (Assistant Coach, Perth Wildcats) 
• Head Coach: Ballarat Miners, Warwick Senators 
• Assistant Coach: Australian Rollers (Paralympics, World Championships) 
• Head Coach, Australia U23s 

Dan Ryan – Assistant Coach 

• Assistant Coach, Darüşşafaka (Turkish Super League) 
• Assistant Coach, Ludwigsburg (German Bundesliga) 
• Assistant Coach, Dartmouth College (NCAA) 
• Director of Player Development, University of Illinois 
• Director of Basketball Operations, Belmont University 

Adam Gibson – Assistant Coach 

• Development Coach, South East Melbourne Phoenix 
• Australian Boomers representative (2012 Olympics, 2012 & 2014 World Cups) 
• 2x NBL Champion (2007, 2009) 
• NBL Defensive Player of the Year (2009)