Chance to depart United, sign as Head Coach of Austin Spurs

Melbourne United Assistant Coach Jacob Chance is set to depart the club ahead of the NBL26 season to take up an opportunity as Head Coach of the Austin Spurs in the NBA G League.

Chance, who came to United in NBL24, has played a big part in the club winning more games than any other team across the past two seasons.

Speaking to Melbourne United Media, Chance touched on his excitement at the move and how his time with the club helped him develop as a young coach.

“I’m very excited, it’s a great opportunity to test everything I’ve learnt over my time in the NBL” he said.

“I’m super privileged to be joining an organisation like the Spurs, which operates not too dissimilar to the way we do here. United is a club that supports its people, which made it such a challenging decision to leave. 

“My partner and I are very comfortable in Melbourne and love all the people at this club, but ultimately the opportunity to become a Head Coach for another top-notch program was something I couldn’t pass up.

“The support I’ve had from Dean, Rhys and Barlow has helped me grow so much across my time here. The autonomy I’ve been given to come in and try to impact this place has been awesome, second to none. 

“I’ve told a lot of people already that this wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for my move to Melbourne. I’m super appreciative of the support, not just over the past two years but throughout this last month.”

Throughout his time at United, Chance’s focus on player development has helped athletes such as Luke Travers and Ariel Hukporti reach NBA heights, while paving a strong pathway for our young stars.

Head Coach Dean Vickerman wished nothing but the best to his departing coach.

“We couldn’t be happier for Chancey,” Vickerman said.

“At our club, we don’t just want great coaches and players, we want great people, and from the second he walked in the door, we knew he was a perfect fit for our culture.

“It can’t be understated the work he’s put in over the past two seasons to help us win as many games as we did, while also helping to prepare our group for NBL26 while I’m with the Boomers.

“I can’t wait to see what he achieves, and I think everyone at United will be keeping an eye on the G League and cheering hard for the Spurs next season.”

From everyone at Melbourne United, we would like to wish Jacob and his partner Bree the best on their next adventure together.