And after a 0-6 start to season 08/09, the Adelaide 36ers have made a move and sacked their coach, Shane Heal, who is to be replaced immediately by the NBL's only current player-coach, Brett Maher amid controversy that the captain, Maher had instructed the players to refuse to play to win under Heal, and that several matches that were easily winnable (Dragons, Slingers, Razorbacks) were thrown by the players in order to send a message to management. Scott Ninnis will also be joining the Adelaide 36ers in the role of Assistant Coach, with Guy Molloy to become the Second Assistant Coach.
As per NBL rules, no public comment may be made by players, coaches or clubs on any matters either before, during or after the event.