After a long search, Adelaide found its guy who will steer the 36ers in the upcoming 2021-22 National Basketball League-Australia season.
Former Australian Boomer CJ Bruton was tapped by the team to replace Conner Henry.
Henry and Adelaide parted ways last August 26.
“We are delighted to welcome CJ, Jessica, and the Bruton family to 36ers Nation,” 36ers Chairman Grant Kelley said.
“While CJ’s basketball pedigree is without peer, it is his personal qualities which we believe 36ers’ fans will value highly; tenacity, commitment to the cause, and the ability to blend high performance with care for the individual.”
“CJ is a special person, a talented leader, and is absolutely ready for this opportunity,” added GM of Basketball Jeff Van Groningen.
“I’ve seen first-hand the positive, winning effect he has on those around him and we have no doubt he will help us achieve great things over these next few seasons.”
Bruton, 45, is a beloved figure in Australian basketball.
He played in Australia and New Zealand from 1994-2016. The 6-foot-2 floor general won six NBL crowns and was the Final MVP in 2012.
Bruton then became an asisstant of Brisbane in 2015.
Last season, the 36ers finished at seventh place with a 13-23 slate.
Kai Sotto, Adelaide’s Special Restricted Player, has been practicing with the team since last month.
