The New Zealand Breakers have appointed Sebastian Gleim as lead assistant coach, reuniting him with newly named head coach Gordon Herbert.
Gleim and Herbert have worked together in various roles over the years, most notably with the German national team in 2023 when they won their first-ever Fiba World Cuptitle in 2023.
The pair also crossed paths at Frankfurt Skyliners in the German Bundesliga, where Gleim began his coaching career, working his way through the ranks.
His most recent role was serving as the managing director of sport at the club, after two years serving as head coach of the Franklin Bulls in the NZ NBL.
“I am incredibly excited to return to New Zealand and join the Breakers organisation,” Gleim said.
“My time in the NZ NBL highlighted the passion, grit, and talent that exists within Kiwi basketball, so when the opportunity arose with the Breakers, it felt like a big privilege for me.
“To reunite with Gordon Herbert is fantastic. We have achieved a lot together and share a belief in establishing a winning culture. We have an immensely competitive roster for the NBL27, and I cannot wait to get to Auckland and help bring a championship back to the Breakers.”
Sebastian Gleim coached the Franklin Bulls for two seasons. Photo / Photosport
The appointment of Gleim completes a strong assistant line-up which includes Quinn Clinton and Matt Lacey.
Breakers owner Marc Mitchell said the appointment of Gleim was big for the franchise.
“Securing a coach of Sebastian’s standing as our Lead Assistant is another big piece for our Club,” Mitchell said. “We are building an elite, world-class coaching staff to lead our talented roster.”
Meanwhile, the Breakers have confirmed that Mario Dugandzic won’t return as an assistant next season, having accepted a role with the German Basketball Federation.
The Breakers have been active assembling their roster, re-signing centre Sam Mennenga and forward Carlin Davison while securing shooter Preston Le Gassick, and bringing in NBL championship duo Dejan Vasiljevic and Kouat Noi.
They join import Parker Jackson-Cartwright, and Tall Blacks duo Ruben Te Rangi and Izayah Le’Afa, who were already under contract.
Contracted Breakers players for the 2026-27 season: Parker Jackson-Cartwright, Sam Mennenga, Reuben Te Rangi, Izayah Le’afa, Carlin Davison, Dejan Vasiljevic, Preston Le Gassick, Kouat Noi.
