Phoenix Signs Sam Mackinnon as Assistant Coach

South East Melbourne Phoenix have appointed former South East Melbourne Magic championship player Sam Mackinnon as their new assistant coach for the next two years.

Mackinnon will be reunited with former Magic teammate and current Phoenix head coach Mike Kelly, marking a full circle moment for him after a successful playing career that began in the Heartland.

(Sam Mackinnon has signed on as Assistant Coach for the next two seasons.)

“It definitely has come full circle. Really excited to be back with Mike (Kelly). I’ve kept a close eye on the Phoenix over the last few years and really like what they’ve done in the community and in the Heartland,” said Mackinnon.

“They’re not a start-up club anymore, and traditionally it’s very hard to be successful straight up, and they’ve been very, very close. I feel like they’re ready to take the next step. I’m very happy to be here.”

Mackinnon brings a wealth of experience to the Phoenix after spending the last five years at the Brisbane Bullets in a variety of roles including, assistant coach (2017-2020), GM of Basketball (2020-2023) and interim head coach (2022).

“I’ve had different roles with the NBL over the last few years, but as an assistant I’m just happy to play my role, I think I can offer a lot to the players with my experience in individual development,” said Mackinnon.

“Creeky, he’s an NBL great already, and playing that similar position to him, if I can help him out to get to even higher outcomes, I think it will be a really good working relationship.”

(Mackinnon is excited to work individually with players like Mitch Creek.)

Mackinnon cites the decision to join the Phoenix as an easy one, particularly following the appointment of Kelly as head coach.

“Having Mike on board as head coach and (knowing) what he’s about as a human being, I love to be around that and try to help as well,” said Mackinnon.

“The roster they’ve got, what they’ve got coming in the future as far as the facility, there’s just a lot of great things.”

Head coach Mike Kelly is elated to have someone of Mackinnon’s experience join the coaching group for NBL24.

“Sam brings great knowledge and feel for the game that will help shape the Phoenix as we head into the pre-season,” said Kelly.

“His ability to connect with players is going to help them grow individually and make us stronger as a team.

“I am so excited to start working with Sam, we will push each other every day to work towards our goals,” he added.

Stay tuned to Phoenix socials and website for more off-season news.

Phoenix Media (8/5/2023)