Imports departing, injuries piling up and an emergency meeting after a blowout loss — rookie head coach Stu Lash is facing immense pressure to steady the Brisbane Bullets as their season reaches a crucial early juncture.

The Bullets sit second last as they prepare to face the Perth Wildcats away on Wednesday night (9pm AEDT) and there have been several signs to suggest things are approaching breaking point.

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Following a 116–89 loss to Illawarra on Saturday, several players for the Bullets had planned to attend a post-match dinner with some of the players from the Hawks. However it’s understood the Brisbane players were called in as the club held an emergency meeting instead.

While details of the meeting remain undisclosed, the move speaks volumes about the current mood inside Bullets headquarters.

The strain on Lash is becoming increasingly visible. The first-year coach has now fronted the media four consecutive games without a player beside him at post-match press conferences — not a requirement for losing teams, but an uncommon sign that hints at the squad’s fragile morale.

Stu Lash head coach of the Bullets during the round two NBL match between Adelaide 36ers and Brisbane Bullets at Adelaide Entertainment Centre, on September 28, 2025, in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

“Over the course of a season, you’ll always have probably two or three games that you want to flush away really quick and move on,” Lash said after the defeat to the reigning NBL champions.

“This is probably one of them, just given where we’re at from a scheduling standpoint and with our bodies. But there are a few key details we need to improve on – and we will. We’ll address that.”

When Lash was appointed as head coach earlier this year, despite having no prior NBL head coaching experience, it raised the eyebrows of some analysts and fans.

Just a few rounds into the season, it feels like those early critics are having their “I told you so” moment.

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Obseravtions about Lash’s coaching style have included questions over his ability to make clear, composed decisions under pressure — an issue highlighted during a recent game by commentator Peter Hooley, following a questionable timeout call.

“I maybe would’ve kept that timeout,” Hooley said. “It’s only a four-point game with plenty of time left. I’m not sure it was desperately needed.”

NBL veteran Mark Worthington, who played over 300 games in the league, also voiced his skepticism early in the season, suggesting Lash’s appointment came more from connections than credentials.

“Red flags at the Bullets with Stu Lash,” Worthington posted on X.

“Worldwide search for a head coach, and he’s gifted the job by his mate and co-owner Jason Levien.”

“Basketball résumé: scout and video coordinator (2002–06); director of player personnel (2009–12). This team deserves better.”

Adding to the scrutiny, Lash has been spotted standing away from team huddles on several occasions, leaving his assistant coaches to lead timeouts. And on the few occasions he has taken charge in those moments, he’s been heard offering simple instructions such as, “pass the ball more.”

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Still, it’s hard to ignore the difficult hand Lash has been dealt. The Bullets have lost key players Sam McDaniel (ankle) and Mitch Norton (knee) to injury, and recently parted ways with star import Javon Freeman-Liberty. But even with those setbacks, questions remain about Lash’s ability to inspire a struggling roster.

Before hiring Lash on a three-year deal, Brisbane reportedly cast a wide net for an experienced coach, interviewing several international candidates. One unsuccessful applicant – who spoke to Fox Sports Australia on the condition of anonymity – didn’t hold back when asked how the talented team might have fared under their leadership.

“I would have won the league,” the candidate said.

Now, the Bullets find themselves backed into a corner with a thin lineup and mounting tension. The road ahead doesn’t get easier — after the Wildcats they face unbeaten Melbourne United on Friday night.

At 1-4, Brisbane risks falling to 1-6 by round’s end. And if that happens, the questions — and pressue on Lash and his team — will only grow.