Kelly, Phoenix part ways

The South East Melbourne Phoenix and head coach Mike Kelly have parted ways, effective immediately.

Phoenix GM of Basketball Operations Simon Mitchell, and CEO Tommy Greer met with Kelly on Sunday morning and came to the agreement. South East Melbourne has started the season 0-5 after falling to the Brisbane Bullets on Saturday night.  

Mitchell thanked Kelly for his contributions to the Phoenix over 33 games, but said the time was now to move in a different direction. 

“The team's on-court performance is not meeting the club’s standards and expectations,” Mitchell said.

“While we deeply respect, appreciate, and thank Mike for his hard work and dedication, we believe a change is necessary to move the team forward and deliver the success our fans, sponsors, and stakeholders deserve.” 

Kelly thanked the Phoenix for the opportunity and wished the team luck for the remainder of the season.

“While it hasn’t worked out the way I would’ve liked, I’m thankful to the players, fans, sponsors and the Phoenix for the opportunity,” Kelly said.  

“I truly believe in the playing group and wish them all the best moving forward.” 

Assistant coach Sam Mackinnon will step in as interim head coach. The Phoenix will announce a new head coach in due course.