Tasmania remains on track to join the NBL for the 2021-22 season with deal close to being signed off

Premier Peter Gutwein has revealed the state is closing in on a final agreement with NBL boss Larry Kestelman. DETAILS >>

NBL owner and executive chairman Larry Kestelman and Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein at the announcement that the league’s 10th team would be based in Tasmania. Picture: Zak Simmonds

THE Tasmanian Government and NBL owner Larry Kestelman are close to a “final agreement” which will ensure the state is back in the league in time for the 2021-22 season.

Speaking this morning, Premier Peter Gutwein said he held talks with Mr Kestelman last night and the two parties were closing in on a deal.

Negotiations were put on hold for two months following the COVID-19 pandemic.

It comes as the Government announced it will provide $68.5 million for the upgrade of the Derwent Entertainment Centre, including $20 million for a community four court multisport facility.

Artists impressions for the Derwent Entertainment Centre (DEC) for games with the NBL

“I spoke with Mr Kestelman last night and we are very close to a final agreement, there are a couple of matters we need to hammer out,” Mr Gutwein said.

“But we are both positive we will be able to take this forward, subject to finalising those matters.

“That will also enable an NBL team to play in Tasmania not this season but in the next.”

Mr Kestelman and Mr Gutwein announced an in principle agreement in late February which would see Tasmania return to the national competition for the first time since 1996.

In return for a taxpayer funded upgrade of the DEC, Mr Kestelman will hand the NBL’s 10th licence to the state as well as invest $150 million into a shopping, hotel and restaurant precinct at adjacent Wilkinsons Point.

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