The Auckland Tuatara will have a new coach in 2025 with Aaron Young confirming that he won’t be returning to the club next season.
Young has led the Tuatara to three successive Sal’s NBL Grand Finals in the first three seasons of the club’s history.
But the Perth Wildcats assistant 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 GM Dale Budge said.
“We will be forever indebted to him for the massive contribution he has made with our franchise.
“No club has won more games in the three years we have been in existence and much of that is due to the work that Aaron has put in.
“We sincerely wish him all the best with his future and hope that one day it might lead back to the Tuatara.”
Young has fond memories of his three years with the Tuatara and has built a stack of relationships that will last long beyond his coaching tenure.
“My time with the Tuatara has been about the consistency of who you surround yourself with,” Young said. “We built a program top to bottom that was filled with the right people. Proud that we got that right each year.
“My assistant coaches, Sonny [Tuaputa] and Josiah [Maama] – thank you for your service and support to our players. Four years together and we experienced tremendous growth.
“The support team – Chris Johns, Dave Beatie, Ethan Wood, Carl Murray. I appreciate your efficiency and dedication every day.
“To the management and ownership – Regan [Wood], Dale [Budge] and Debbie [Howard]. I have felt the support since day one. The freedom in which you allowed me to operate gave me great clarity. It has been a pleasure working with you.
“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.”
The search for a new coach will begin immediately.