Paul Gallen and James Bracey Clash Over Perth Bears Controversy
Discontent erupted on Nine's 100% Footy, as former NRL star Paul Gallen and Perth Bears board member James Bracey exchanged heated words regarding the Bears' lack of success in the player market.
Following Jarome Luai's standout signing with the PNG Chiefs last week, attention has shifted to the Bears, who have yet to secure a high-profile player like Luai despite their upcoming debut in 2027.
The discussion has largely centered around the tax-free incentives provided to the Chiefs, raising questions about the Bears' unique challenges, including their geographic distance from Australia's bustling east coast, which has led to no financial support from the NRL.
During the show, Bracey expressed his worries about the Chiefs potentially causing a "freeze" in the player market, as the move to PNG is proving far more appealing for players and agents than the prospects in Perth.
"I loved hearing from Trent Robinson and Ivan Cleary, authoritative figures in the game with so much experience ... saying they believe Perth need some sort of help," he remarked.
While the Bears have brought in players like Tyran Wishart, Nick Meaney, and Siosifa Talakai, Gallen challenged the franchise's recruitment strategies and visibility.
"My question is which one of those blokes have you had on the TV? Jarome Luai was all over (the media)," Gallen pointed out.