A New Chapter for Pacific Basketball
Mike Kelly, a coach whose résumé spans three professional leagues and the Australian Men’s National Team, has officially joined the University of the Pacific’s men’s basketball staff, bringing a global perspective to the Tigers’ program.
Kelly’s journey began on the courts of Australia, where he spent fifteen seasons as a player before transitioning to coaching, amassing two championships and back‑to‑back Defensive Player of the Year honors in the late 1990s.
His coaching acumen quickly rose through the ranks, leading the Cairns Taipans to the semifinals of the National Basketball League in 2020 and earning Coach of the Year recognition for guiding the side to a deep playoff run.
Internationally, Kelly steered the Australian Men’s National Team to a flawless 6‑0 campaign at the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup, securing the nation’s second title with a two‑point victory over Lebanon, and later helped the squad qualify for the 2023 FIBA World Cup with a perfect 3‑0 record in the qualifiers.
In China, he guided the Shenzen Leopards to the semifinals of the Chinese Basketball Association in 2026, showcasing his ability to adapt his strategies across different competitive environments.
His earlier stint at Utah Valley University produced the program’s first Division I postseason appearance in 2012, and he was credited with developing an All‑American player in 2011, underscoring his talent for player development.
Kelly also contributed as an assistant coach on an NBL championship team in 2018 with Melbourne United, further enriching his tactical repertoire.
Now, under the leadership of head coach Dave Smart, Kelly will focus on mentoring student‑athletes, elevating their competitive edge, and embedding a culture of excellence that aligns with the university’s academic mission.
The addition of Kelly’s international pedigree signals a bold step for the Pacific Tigers, promising a blend of seasoned wisdom and fresh energy as they aim to contend in the West Coast Conference.