Mike Kelly has been appointed as the new assistant basketball coach at the University of the Pacific. Head Coach Dave Smart praised Kelly's extensive coaching experience, highlighting his success in various professional leagues and with the Australian Men鈥檚 National Team. Kelly previously led the Shenzen Leopards to a semifinal appearance in China鈥檚 top league and secured the Australian National Team's second title at the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup. His coaching career also includes honors such as Coach of the Year in the Australian NBL and a history of success at the NCAA Division I level with Utah Valley.

By the Numbers
  • Led the Australian National Team to a 6-0 record and a title at the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup.
  • Coached Shenzen Leopards to a semifinal appearance in the Chinese Basketball Association in 2026.
  • Achieved Coach of the Year honors in 2020 with Cairns Taipans in the Australian NBL.
Yes, But

Despite his impressive accolades, Kelly faces the challenge of translating his international success to the collegiate level, where dynamics and player development differ significantly from professional leagues.

State of Play
  • Kelly returns to California, eager to leverage his vast coaching expertise for the Pacific Tigers.
  • He aims to enhance the players' growth and success under Coach Smart's leadership.
What's Next

As Kelly settles into his new role, he will work closely with the coaching staff to implement strategies that elevate the program鈥檚 performance and recruitment efforts, aiming for a successful season ahead.

Bottom Line

Mike Kelly's extensive coaching background provides the Pacific men's basketball program with valuable experience and a fresh perspective, potentially setting the stage for a promising season and future successes.