He took over from Singapore Slingers-bound Frank Arsego for the last four matches as interim coach this year after a seven-year absence from the Gunners program.

Evans was appointed full-time coach on the weekend after a selection process and One Basketball Canberra chief executive Mark Cartwright said he was the standout applicant.

''Experience is one thing, but Greg has a very strong respect from the playing group and a great outlook for the Gunners,'' Cartwright said.

''He legitimately wants to create links with the Canberra Nationals and continue to grow Canberra basketball. It was always going to take a strong candidate to push him out and now he's the main man.''

The Gunners are only missing two of last season's squad as they prepare for next year.

Cartwright said the Gunners would consider having an open trial to find local talent.

The team will also attempt to lure NBL player Anthony Petrie back to Canberra in the off-season.