If the Auckland Tuatara are to breakthrough for a maiden National Basketball League (NBL) title in 2025, they will do it with a new head coach.
Aaron Young, who has led the Tuatara to three straight NBL grand final appearances, has confirmed he will not return next season.
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But the Perth Wildcats assistant coach in the Australian National Basketball League (ANBL) has turned down the chance to come back again in 2025.
“We are disappointed that Aaron won’t be returning but we understand he is ready for a new challenge at this point in his career,” Tuatara general manager Dale Budge said.
“We will be forever indebted to him for the massive contribution he has made with our franchise.
"We sincerely wish him all the best with his future and hope that one day it might lead back to the Tuatara.”
Young led the Tuatara to a 39-17 record during the regular season during his three years in charge, the most wins by any franchise during that stretch, while going 4-3 in the playoffs.
“My time with the Tuatara has been about the consistency of who you surround yourself with,” Young said. “We built a programme top to bottom that was filled with the right people. Proud that we got that right each year.
“To our fans, we always felt the passion and support. Walking out and seeing the loyalty of those that have supported us through the years is a truly special experience.”