Coaching Stability Locked In

The Brisbane Bullets commit to building continuity and success in NBL26, with Assistant Coaches Darryl McDonald (DMac) and Greg Vanderjagt (Vandy) resigning for another two seasons.

The extensions come at a pivotal time as the Bullets enter a new era under Head Coach Stu Lash. While it’s Lash’s first season in the lead role, he’s no stranger to the coaching group, having previously worked closely with both DMac and Vandy during his tenure as the club’s Senior Basketball Advisor. The trio’s existing rapport ensures a smooth transition and sets the foundation for a cohesive, united approach.

A legendary point guard in his playing days, New York-born DMac joined the Bullets as Assistant Coach in 2023 having played in nearly 500 NBL games and won three championships for North Melbourne Giants and Melbourne United.

He served as Assistant and Interim Head Coach of Melbourne United prior to the move to South East Queensland, and is now Head Coach of Northside Wizards in NBL1 in the Bullets’ off season.

 “I came here two years ago to help win the Club a championship and that’s still my mindset. I want to do whatever I can to help win this thing,” DMac said. “I’m very passionate, I wear my heart on my sleeve and I’m big on basketball development. I love to see guys get better.”

Vandy, a Bullets mainstay, enters his sixth season as an Assistant Coach at the Club.

Born in New South Wales, Vandy moved to Queensland in 2003 to make his NBL debut for Townsville Crocodiles where he spent eight seasons of a 10-year playing career. 

The former NBL big man has served in various coaching roles with the club, including interim Head Coach in NBL23. He also leads the Brisbane Capitals in NBL1 and the Australian U17 men’s program in off-season.

“Basketball has given me everything in my life. For me to able to pass on the experience and knowledge, and to be able to share that and impact players now - that is the most rewarding aspect of the job.”

“All the coaching staff brings a different skillset. Stu’s ability to manage and lead people and his personality type and wealth of experience in the NBA and internationally is an asset that we can learn from. DMac is the greatest ever point guard to play in this league. His experience as a Head Coach, Assistant Coach and as player developer – watching him work every day, you learn new things.”

With the core coaching team locked in and familiar faces returning, the Bullets are laying strong foundations for success - built on experience and a shared commitment to bringing out the best in Brisbane basketball.