Breakers coach to depart club

The New Zealand Breakers announced on Friday current Associate Head Coach Judd Flavell won’t return to the club for the NBL27 season.

Flavell was tipped to be in the mix for the club’s Head Coaching role after Petteri Koponen’s recent departure.

Rather, he is undertaking a new chapter that aligns with his international coaching ambitions, having secured a head coaching contract prior to the conclusion of the current NBL season.

"I was approached regarding an international opportunity as a head coach during our recent season,” Flavell said in a club statement.

“After careful consideration of my long term goals, I felt I couldn’t turn it down.”

>> Finals schedule, tickets & how to watch

Flavell, a four-time championship winning coach with the Breakers over 13 seasons, had re joined the club for the 2025-26 campaign as Associate Head Coach.

“I am proud of what we have achieved as a team at the Breakers this season,” Flavell said.

“The Breakers will always be a part of who I am, and I will remain a staunch supporter from afar.

“I wish the club nothing but success and leave knowing the foundation is now in place for them to reclaim their place at the top of the NBL.”

The Breakers are continuing their search for a new head coach for the NBL27 season, following Koponen’s two year tenure at the club.

"Judd is a legend of New Zealand basketball, we are incredibly proud to see him take this next step on the world stage," Breakers President of Basketball Operations, Dillon Boucher said.

"Judd’s dedication to the Breakers has been absolute throughout his tenure, and we always recognised that his success both locally, and as the Tall Blacks Head Coach would eventually command international attention.

“He follows a path that reflects his growth as a world class leader.

“Having committed to his new opportunity, he leaves with our full blessing. We are excited to see him pursue his new challenge.”

Meanwhile, ESPN's Olgun Uluc has suggested the Breakers could have interest in former head coach Mody Maor, who led the team from 2022 to 2024.

Maor is currently coaching at Nagasaki Velca in the Japanese B. League.

The NBL Playoffs continue on Saturday night with a double header on ESPN.

First, South East Melbourne hosts Adelaide at John Cain Arena at 5.30pm AEDT, before Perth takes on Sydney at RAC Arena, from 8pm AEDT.