NBL throws its support behind Darwin-based team

The NBL has thrown its support behind a Darwin-based team with the sport’s growing popularity in the region catching the attention of the national body

A national team would allow NT juniors a clear pathway to pursue their sport. Picture: Che Chorley

THE NBL has thrown its support behind a Darwin based team with the sport’s growing popularity in the region catching the attention of the national body.

Basketball has grown in popularity year on year across the Top End and with each year the push for an NBL1 side has increased in order to retain the growing stocks of talented players.

But also of importance to the NBL is Darwin’s geographical position as the gateway to Southeast Asia.

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NBL commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said the league was hugely interested in expansion with Tasmania recently receiving an NBL side.

“Territorians love their sport. The game is already hugely popular in the NT and we’re of the view that Territorians deserve a team on a permanent basis,” Loeliger said.

“We feel that as custodians of the sport we need to play a role in that furthered development in the NT region. We can dip our toe with NBL1 to see the interest for an NBL side.

“The infrastructure is also there with the Darwin Convention Centre providing a perfect location so the remaining piece is investment.

“We understand the importance of growing our product and with Darwin on the doorstep to Southeast Asia it’s a relevant location.”

Basketball NT CEO John Mitchell, who has been on a working group looking at bringing in an NBL1 side, feels it will be crucial for junior retention and development.

Juniors such as Freddy Webb, Joel De Barros and Will Burton have already moved interstate to pursue their dream.

And recent standout results in the under-18 nationals is further proof of the growing pedigree of Top End basketballers.

“We’ve had a working group on an NBL1 team for the past six months and would be excited to hear any support,” Mitchell said.

“It just provides a real pathway for our juniors to complete their schooling here while still playing instead of being forced to move away.

“The opportunities are enormous for Darwin. It’s not just one home game, but nine or 10 with travel cost the only real thing we will need to contend with.”