Melbourne Extend Vickerman Contract

Melbourne United have announced that Dean Vickerman has extended his Head Coach contract for a further two seasons.

A major driving force of Melbourne’s success over the past few seasons, Vickerman will remain at the helm of the club through to the end of the 2023-24 season.

Speaking with Melbourne United Media, Vickerman said the job he set out to complete when he joined the club in 2017 is far from over.

“I feel like right now, it’s still my time to lead the team,” he said.

“When I first came here, my goal was to try and build a consistent, high performing team.

“We wanted to contend for championships every year, fortunately, we’ve won a couple and have come close a few other times, so we’ve had good success so far.”

United Team Captain Chris Goulding believes the decision to extend Vickerman is a great one for the organisation.

“It’s great news for the club,” Goulding said.

“Success follows Dean and that isn’t by accident. Ever since he got to the club the level of professionalism, the progression of our culture, and on court success have all improved and continue to improve. 

“I’m very happy for him and his family, and very happy as a player that he will continue to be our coach at Melbourne United.”

Getting back out in front of the NBL fans after a disjointed last few years is also something Vickerman is excited for.

“The last few years have been tough for the fans,” he added.

“Coming out of this period, I’m excited not only to hear our fans cheering hard, but to hear people heckling us in other stadiums around the country.”

Melbourne United Chief Executive Officer Nick Truelson said he is thrilled Vickerman is locked in for the next few seasons, adding his impact on the organisation has been tremendous.

“It is not only fantastic news for the club, our members and corporate partners but also terrific for the game of basketball and the NBL to have one of the most respected coaches in our league for at least the next two years following the NBL22 season. 

“In the short time that I have been here at the club I have seen first-hand the outstanding leadership Dean displays on and off the court and I am looking forward to working with him and the rest of the club as we continue to build on being a destination club with a real focus on sustained excellence.”

Vickerman has won three NBL titles with Melbourne, two of which came as Head Coach in 2018 and 2021 with United and the third as an Assistant Coach in 2006 for the Tigers.

Vickerman also boasts a quartet of other NBL titles; all with the New Zealand Breakers.