Coronavirus outbreak forces NBL1 to delay start of all conference seasons

The NBL1 south conference, containing Tasmania’s three teams, has joined the north and already-postponed central conference in delaying the start of their 2020 seasons.

From left, Chargers women's coach Mark Nash, club president Brett McKay and men's coach Anthony Stewart will have to wait at least an extra two weeks before the start of the NBL1 season. Picture: Zak Simmonds

TASMANIA’S three NBL1 teams have joined the list of sides forced to wait to begin their 2020 seasons after the competition was pushed back at least a fortnight.

The Hobart Chargers, Launceston Tornadoes and North West Thunder were all due to begin the NBL1 south roster on the weekend of April 18 and 19.

However, league officials have announced the south conference, along with the NBL1 central (South Australia) and NBL1 north (Queensland) will not start before May 15.

“The health and welfare of players, staff, officials and fans is our number one priority,” NBL chief operating officer Andy Crook said.

“These are obviously challenging times for everyone and we will continue to monitor the situation along with the state associations and assess all of our options.”