NBL1 North: North Gold Coast Seahawks won’t compete in 2025 season

The North Gold Coast Seahawks have withdrawn from the 2025 NBL1 North competition. Find out why, and what it means for the league with another team also looking to leave.

The North Gold Coast Seahawks have withdrawn from the 2025 NBL1 North season as the club undergoes a “re-prioritisation” of its resources.

The decision was confirmed on Thursday afternoon and comes off the back of Jared Swanson stepping into the newly created role of Director of Basketball and Administration, replacing Graham Burns.

“Jared brings a wealth of experience and expertise, and under his leadership, we are making it a significant focus to fully invest in the future of our Junior Development Programs. A key pillar identified in our recent strategic planning session attended by our key stakeholders,” the club said in a statement.

“This change in focus has required a re-prioritisation of the association’s resources and after careful consideration, we’ve made the difficult decision to step back from competing in NBL1 for the 2025 season.”

“This decision was not made lightly, but we firmly believe that by dedicating all our efforts to rejuvenating our Junior Development programs we will build a strong and thriving program that focuses on key areas of development and benefits the entire Seahawks community.

In the men’s season this year, the Seahawks battled to a 5-12 record and finished last, while the women enjoyed a strong campaign under the tutelage of Caddie Jeffries to finish fifth and reach the semifinals. Following the conclusion of the season, Jeffries noted the importance of the club growing its junior base.

North Gold Coast Seahawks player Jessica Boundy in action this season. Picture: Highflyer Images.

The Seahawks said in their statement that, over the coming months, a new five-year strategic plan for the association would be finalised and published for members.

Swanson, the man overseeing the drastic change, is a former professional basketballer who has an extensive post-playing resume that includes working in various roles at Boise State, North Dakota State, San Jose State, Ohio University, Northern State University, and Green Bay in the US.

The decision comes after a tumultuous off-season ahead of North Gold Coast’s 2024 campaign that included damning allegations made by a former employee, which the club unequivocally denied, and a dispute with a former coach amid financial uncertainty.

Basketball Queensland confirmed that it was the Seahawks’ decision to not nominate for 2025, however, if eligible, they would be able to apply to re-join in 2026.

The NBL1 North competition will feature 12 teams in 2024, with the Darwin Salties also set to pull out in a bid to join NBL1 Central, citing cheaper travel costs.

Less than two years ago in 2023, the competition had fielded 16 teams, but USC Rip City and RedCity Roar were both axed ahead of 2024.

Basketball Queensland said in a statement that it “acknowledges the decision made by the North Gold Coast Seahawks”.

“This outcome follows extensive discussions between Basketball Queensland and the Seahawks, with a focus on the club’s long-term strategy and the sustainability of their participation in the competition,” the statement read.

“Throughout this process, Basketball Queensland has worked closely with the Seahawks to provide guidance and ensure they were well-supported in making the best decision for their organisation.

“The Seahawks will focus on strengthening their development pathways, enhancing their junior programs, and ensuring that they build a sustainable foundation for future success.”

The North Gold Coast Seahawks have been contacted for further comment.

Originally published as NBL1 North: North Gold Coast Seahawks won’t compete in 2025 season