New GM of Basketball ready to take on 2023 SalsNBL challenge

The Franklin Bulls are excited to announce the signing of new General Manager of Basketball, Mika Vukona.

He takes on the role after 2022 General Manager, Scott Kelso stepped down to move to focus on the organisation and work with partners.

“We founded the team to be able to provide pathways to our community and now we are ready to take the team to the next level. We are beyond excited to have Mika on board. Not only does he provide experience in the game that is almost unrivalled, he also has spent a considerable amount of time on the administration side of the game. I can’t wait to work with him”. Says Bulls Co-founder, Scott Kelso

“His wealth of knowledge as a player will help our guys considerably, but we are also excited for our developing players. Having Mika there to support them, inspire and to teach the game is going to be amazing for our South Auckland, Franklin and North Waikato kids.” Adds Kelso

Most recently, Vukona has been a consultant with Tasmania in their first season in the Australian NBL and saw incredible first season success. The Jack Jumpers finished just short of a Championship, making it to the Grand Final.

Vukona says, he’s excited to be joining the Franklin Bulls this upcoming season.

“Since coming into the league the Franklin bulls have also had high aspirations of becoming one of NZs top organisations not only on the court but also out in the community. To now have the opportunity to be part of that, being able to help build on the Franklin Bulls vision using not only the experiences I’ve picked up during my playing days but also over the last couple years during my retirement it has enabled me to get a more holistic view and approach on how the game is operated, participated and played. With this experience I hope to build a program that the community is proud of.

Vukona is a 5 time Australian NBL champion (4 with the Breakers) and has won the New Zealand NBL chip once with the Nelson Giants in 2007. He is also one of the most capped New Zealand Tall Blacks with 152 games in the black singlet. Vukona believes this experience can benefit the local community.

“The Franklin, South Auckland area codes for me growing up and playing against and even now, have always had a wealth of natural talent; I’m excited to get the opportunity to help in this space, to continue to build a lasting and meaningful pathway that works and benefits our local talent. I want the Franklin Bulls to empower our local people and to connect with their community; build on what already exists and to show, that there are multiple options out there for our local kids to aspire for; no matter what level they participate in.”

The New GM of Basketball will join the Bulls from December 1st with a focus on building the 2023 roster and appointing a head coach to lead the squad.