Scott Roth has immediately shut down suggestions of a Tasmania JackJumpers dynasty unfolding in the NBL.
An hour after the league's newest club claimed its maiden championship, Roth urged fans to "pump our brakes" and soak up the achievement.
But the American coach hinted at a bright future when he revealed the majority of his title-winning squad would return next season.
"We have a vision of keeping this group together but let's just enjoy the moment and see where it leads us, and not get too far ahead of ourselves," Roth said after his side's 83-81 win over Melbourne United in Sunday's deciding fifth game.
"The work is the work and what we bring back next year, we'll bring back.
"It will all be in an effort to make sure that this franchise is moving in the right direction.
"Sometimes there's tough decisions to be made that aren't overly popular, and that's my responsibility.
"But in my last three years here and moving into next year, I want to leave this place with something that's in really good shape."
Roth has stirred emotion inside Tasmanians with his "defend the island" catchcry since taking the reins as the JackJumpers' inaugural coach three years ago.
He has repeatedly stated an NBL championship wouldn't change his own life, adamant the greatest ramifications are to be felt by the state.
"These (players) are young and it's a hell of an accomplishment, but for me, my satisfaction comes from giving back and having people celebrate this team," Roth said.
"We hit a nerve with Tasmania in the first year and the fans just kept coming, and the relationship between us and the fans has been ginormous over the last three years.
"To give something back to the state is hugely gratifying.
"I've always said I don't count myself as a coach - more of a mentor - and to give something back to the state will hopefully be part of my legacy there."
Roth planned to take some of his own advice about living in the moment after Sunday's win, eyeing off a few beers and one of his favourite cigars as the JackJumpers' championship party grew legs.
"I'll sit back and watch these guys celebrate and enjoy themselves, and rightfully so," Roth said.
"Then we're going to have a hell of celebration in the next few days back in Tasmania."
