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PERTH Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson is unlikely to return from country Victoria in time to run his team in Friday's NBL game against Sydney Kings.

Gleeson has been in Warrnambool with his mother Margaret since the Wildcats beat Adelaide 36ers 83-80 in their season-opener at Perth Arena last Friday.

She is believed to be seriously ill.

"The club's thoughts and prayers are with Trevor Gleeson and his family during this difficult time,'' the Wildcats said in a statement.

No further details were released.

Assistant coach Andy Stewart has been in charge this week and will coach the Wildcats against Sydney if Gleeson cannot return in time.

Perth backs up on Sunday against the Tigers in Melbourne where Gleeson is more likely to take back the reins.

In July, Margaret Gleeson was awarded Warrnambool Basketball Incorporated life membership for her services to the game in the popular Victorian coastal resort.

In 11 previous regular season attempts coaching visiting teams in Perth, Trevor Gleeson was 0-11.

"It's good to get a win here," he told the 10,208-strong crowd post-game Friday.

There are likely to be very many more during his three-year tenure.