NBL and NT Government in discussions for new deal

The NBL and NT Government are in discussions over a new deal which could see more basketball come to the region.

The NBL and NT government are currently in discussions to formalise an agreement which would guarantee “greater activity” in the Top End.

In a statement to the NT News, Major Events Minister Brett Potter said the government was “working to bring the NBL to Darwin”.

“We are negotiating with the NBL to formalise an agreement which will see greater activity in the Territory from the top national league in the coming years,” Mr Potter said.

The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to Darwin in 2024 as part of the team's world tour.

The past few years have seen an increase in high level basketball with the birth of the Darwin Salties in 2022, the NBL Blitz pre-season tournament being held in Darwin in October of that year while the government has done feasibility work into the possibility of the city hosting a top tier team.

Former NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles also met with league bosses in November last year while Darwin is due to host the Harlem Globetrotters in June this year.

In a further statement from the league, it said it had built a “strong collaborative relationship” with the NT Government “as we look for ways to bring more basketball to the Top End”.

“We are proud to be bringing the Harlem Globetrotters to Darwin … and will always be open to more opportunities to work together,” the league said.

“Our great relationship and collaboration with all stakeholders continues and we’re excited for the path we are on together and what the future may hold.”

However, neither the government or the NBL would say what it meant by “greater activity” specifically.