Under-16s competition called off meaning NT side may miss out for second year in a row

BASKETBALL Australia has called off the upcoming Basketball Under-16s Championships set to be held in Western Australia from July 3, with NT juniors a week away from heading down

Basketball Australia cancels under-16s championships for second year. Photograph: Che Chorley

BASKETBALL Australia has called off the upcoming Basketball Under-16s Championships set to be held in Western Australia from July 3, with NT juniors a week away from heading down.

Due to the recent outbreaks and subsequent border closures across the country, Basketball Australia determined that the minimum number of teams required to compete cannot be met.

It is understood that there is a preference to postpone the event rather than cancel for what would be the second year in a row.

MORE NT SPORT STORIES

Territory junior Joel De Barros continues his Australian basketball journey after getting selected in the National Performance Camp

Experienced basketball administrator Gary Shipway named the new chairman of Darwin basketball

Basketball NT development manager Rod Tremlett said it was disappointing to see the event called off just a week before the junior teams were set to take off.

“It’s extremely disappointing particularly as we were only a week away from departure but we understand that safety is the priority,” Tremlett said.

“It’s pretty tough for everyone involved including the players and the coaching staff that have put so much work into getting ready for this event.

“The kids have received plenty of development and while they won’t be going to the championships they won’t lose what they have gained.

“We understand that Basketball Australia’s preference is to postpone rather than cancel particularly as they were forced to cancel last year as well.

“It just goes to show how lucky we were with the under-18s competition. We just have to stay in contact with these juniors and let them know if anything comes up.

“We will be keeping a close eye on if it is postponed and if that’s the case we will have the same teams.”

Next up for Basketball NT is the Big Hustle 3X3 NT Championships on July 14.

Tremlett hopes the competition would give the unfortunte under-16s the chance to show off their skills in lieu of their chance at nationals.