The Adelaide Lightning are proud to announce the appointment of Aja Parham-Ammar as Head Coach. The new two-year deal will see Aja return to the Lightning, playing a leading role in building the roster for the WNBL27 season, with her leadership pivotal to the performance and success of the club.
Aja, who joined the club in November 2025 as Interim Head Coach, is excited to build the team, expanding on the club’s strong legacy and talent.
“The Adelaide Lightning is a special club with championship legacy, and I feel grateful to be given the opportunity to return to the team.
Right now, our top priority is building a roster that truly embodies the Lightning’s culture and values, creating an environment where player development is front and centre, especially for young SA talent. We have the best members in the League, and our intention is to show up every week, leaving everything on the court, representing the city with pride.”
Aja brings extensive experience at the national and global level from her time as a player and coach, with a strong reputation as a respected coach and mentor.
CEO of the Adelaide Lightning, Melanie MacGillivray said Aja’s appointment reflects a commitment to fostering a strong culture and competitive roster.
“It’s been wonderful working with Aja last season and we’re proud she will be joining as our Head Coach on a two-year deal. Aja has earned a lot of respect and is equipped with a great basketball IQ that is invaluable. In a short amount of time, Aja’s made an incredible impact on the club, players and across the community, and with her longterm vision, that will only continue to grow.”
The move represents the long-term vision of the leadership team investing in the growth of the club.
“Aja will now have the opportunity to build her own roster and continue to foster a strong culture inspiring players and our community across South Australia. This is a reflection of the long-term growth and vision the Adelaide Lightning is embracing this season and beyond,” Ms McGillivray said.
Aja and the team are now focused on free agency and recruiting talent.
“Free agency is rapidly approaching and our members can be confident that we’re hard at work, focused on securing players that will bring that X factor to Adelaide.”
Media contact
Adelaide Haynes
media@adelaidelightning.com
0477 601 188
