Search begins for team Tasmania NBL name with four-week campaign for suggestions launched

NBL boss Larry Kestelman is expecting some weird and wonderful suggestions from basketball fans as the search for the Tasmanian team’s name begins. HAVE YOUR SAY

• NBL boss taps into club chiefs
• Tasmania back from basketball wilderness

THE search has officially begun to name Tasmania’s NBL team, with suggestions now open from basketball fans across the country.

On the back of advertising five key positions for the newest club last week — including a chief executive — the league has launched a four-week campaign asking Tasmanians to nominate their team names ahead of the state’s entry into the league in 2021-22.

Each person can submit three nominations at www.nbltas.com.au, with a shortlist formed by league owner Larry Kestelman before the winning name and team colours are revealed.

NBL owner Larry Kestelman. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

All entrants will go into a draw to win four season tickets, a signed inaugural jersey and meet the players from the new team when the roster is assembled.

Mr Kestelman said there was only one stipulation — Tasmania must be included.

“We need the help of all Tasmanians to name their new team and give it a strong identity that captures the spirit of Tasmania,” he said.

“This will be a brand new team for Tasmania and an opportunity to come up with a brand new name. The only requirement is that Tasmania is part of the name as this will be a team that represents the whole of the state.

Phoenix Robey, 16, Jane Howlett MP, Glenorchy Mayor Kristie Johnston, Basketball Tasmania CEO Chris McCoy, Elise Archer MP and Luke Brown, 16, at the DEC. Picture: CHRIS KIDD

“The rest of it is up to people’s imaginations and we look forward to receiving lots of different and fun names and some great debate among everybody over the coming weeks.

The initial administration appointments and announcement on team colours and moniker are the first steps since Mr Kestelman and the State Government finalised their multimillion-dollar deal to see Tasmania back in the NBL for the first time since 1996.

A $68.5 million redevelopment of the Derwent Entertainment Centre and new four-court multisport facility are part of the deal.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Tasmanians to embrace our brand new team. We have so much to celebrate when it comes to our rich sporting history and culture in Tasmania,” Sport and Recreation Minister Jane Howlett said.

“I have no doubt the passion of Tasmanians who have wanted a team of their own back in the NBL will see some inspiring names put forward for consideration.”

Follow @ajsmiddy