Coronavirus epidemic forces cancellation of NBL1 North

The coronavirus epidemic has forced a premature end to another sports league after the inaugural NBL1 North season was cancelled.

NBL Chief Operating Officer, Andy Crook. Picture: Justin Kennedy

THE coronavirus epidemic has forced a premature end to another sports league claimed after the National Basketball League announced the inaugural season of the NBL1 North competition has been cancelled.

NBL chief operating officer Andy Crook announced the decision in conjunction with Basketball Queensland, Basketball Victoria and Basketball South Australia, after the league originally decided last week to postpone the NBL1 North, South and Central competitions to May 15.

The NBL1 North in Queensland, which would have featured big names such as Brisbane Bullets stars Nathan Sobey, Jason Cadee and Will Magnay, was scheduled to start on April 24.

“Obviously this is unfortunate but it is the most appropriate decision under the current circumstances. The health and safety of players, staff and officials as well as the wider community comes first,” Crook said.

Bullets star and NBA prospect Will Magnay. Picture: Steve Pohlner

“We also want to allow the clubs to focus on re-establishing grassroots basketball as a matter of priority when the time is right.

“I want to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in NBL1, in particular Basketball Victoria, Basketball Queensland, Basketball South Australia and all of our clubs and players.

“We will work with them as we continue to monitor the situation and work towards resuming basketball at a community level at the appropriate time.”

Basketball Queensland said the decision “does not affect the upcoming Queensland State League (QSL) season.

“Basketball Queensland will continue to consult with associations regarding this competition on a regular basis,” the statement said.