Simon Mitchell returns to South East Melbourne

Former South East Melbourne head coach Simon Mitchell is returning to the Phoenix, with the club announcing he has been appointed to the newly created role of General Manager of Basketball Operations.

Mitchell took charge as the club’s head coach for its first four seasons in the NBL before vacating the position at the end of NBL23. Former Cairns head coach and 2020 NBL Coach of the Year Mike Kelly has held the role since.

The Phoenix ended the NBL24 campaign at the bottom of the ladder with a 10-18 record, after their strong start made way for a myriad of injury problems to key players.

Mitchell’s new role will focus on recruitment and basketball strategy, and he will serve as the key conduit between the club’s performance and administrative departments.

“I know the fans will join us in being thrilled to have Simon back in the fold and our ownership group are also really excited about Simon’s potential in this leadership position,” Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said.

“Simon has great basketball smarts and a keen eye for talent and fit. This paired with his strong financial acumen, made him the ideal candidate for this newly created role.

“Mike Kelly and his team are already working hand-in-hand with Simon which has paid some early dividends in our off-season roster build.”

The club is also nearing the conclusion in its search for a new High Performance Manager.

South East Melbourne has already reportedly secured the services of Nathan Sobey and Angus Glover for the NBL25 season, and have already released import center Alan Williams, former NBL champion Rhys Vague and development player Anzac Rissetto ahead of the upcoming free agency period.

NBL free agency will officially begin on April 15.