The Perth Wildcats fly to Sydney and remain outside of Western Australia until March 20
The immediate future of the NBL season could be in jeopardy after a COVID-19 case in Perth had ripple effects across the country
The Perth Wildcats will fly to Sydney on Monday and remain outside of Western Australia until the completion of the NBL Cup in Melbourne on March 20.
The NBL season has been thrown into chaos again following Perth’s coronavirus scare in hotel quarantine that has sparked a five-day lockdown.
The Wildcats will be based in Sydney to travel for matches before relocating to Melbourne for the month-long NBL Cup in a hub, which starts on February 20.
In the meantime, Perth should receive clearence to enter Victoria for Sunday’s clash against United in Bendigo.
As a consequence of Perth’s COVID case and lockdown, Friday’s round four game between Perth and New Zealand at RAC Arena has been postponed.
This Thursday night’s scheduled game between the Brisbane Bullets and Melbourne United at Nissan Arena will now be played on Friday at 7.30pm AEDT.
The Cairns Taipans will now play New Zealand at the Cairns Pop-Up Arena at 5.30pm AEDT this Saturday.
NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger praised the Perth club for its understanding in difficult circumstances as the league and society navigates the coronavirus pandemic.
“Like we have had to do with other teams, the Wildcats will temporarily relocate so they can continue to train and play. This follows the announcement of a five day lockdown in Western Australia.
“We thank all of the Perth players, coaches and staff for their support in what is obviously a challenging time for everyone. All of our clubs have shown tremendous professionalism and a determination to make this season happen despite the ongoing challenges and we will continue to do everything we can to support them.”
It comes as the South East Melbourne Phoenix have been forced into home quarantine after playing against the Wildcats in Perth on Friday night as Perth enters a five-day COVID-19 lockdown.
The Phoenix played Perth at RAC Arena on Friday night, meaning they must self-isolate indefinitely until given further updates from the NBL and state medical officials.
It is expected that the draw will be altered, including changes to the round 5 schedule that was set to include a return to Sydney and Wollongong.
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