Wildcats Appoint Mike Kelly as Associate Head Coach

The Perth Wildcats are delighted to announce the appointment of Mike Kelly as Associate Head Coach for the next two seasons.   

Kelly joins the club following a two-year stint as head coach of the Cairns Taipans. Prior to his time in Queensland, he was an associate head coach at Melbourne United and a part of their 2018 NBL Championship.

His coaching talents have also previously been on display in the American college system at Vanguard University and Utah Valley University.

In addition to having extensive NBL coaching experience, Kelly also has a rich NBL history as a player. He won a Championship in 1996 with South East Melbourne Magic and was awarded Grand Final MVP for his efforts, along with back-to-back NBL Best Defensive Player awards in 1997 and 1998.

The 2020 NBL Coach of the Year says he can’t wait to head west and start working with the group.

“I’m super excited to have the opportunity to be a part of such a great club, with so many great people.” he said

“I’m grateful for the chance to coach again in the NBL and be a part of a team with some guys I’ve coached before, Mitch, Todd and Majok, I’ve always heard great things.

“I think it will be a great fit, the way the Wildcats have played since I was a player and a coach fits the way I go about things, I’ll be another piece of the hard-working machine and I’ll do everything I can to help this group win games.” 

Perth Wildcats CEO Troy Georgiu is excited to welcome Mike Kelly to the organisation.

“Mike has a wealth of experience and ability and we are thrilled to have him come on board as Associate Head Coach of the Perth Wildcats.

“We believe he will be a great fit for the club, both on and off the court, and can’t wait for his arrival.”

Mike Kelly will arrive in Perth later today. 

The club's recruitment process for a head coach is ongoing.