NBL statement on Adelaide travel

The NBL is aware of Adelaide’s comments regarding the scheduling of Round 9 which saw the club play in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Thursday night against the Breakers, followed by a game in Hobart on Saturday against the JackJumpers.

The League will continue to look at scheduling and travel arrangements for each team with player welfare and the integrity of the competition among the highest priorities.

“The Adelaide situation was complicated and while the club had an option to take an alternate, later flight out of New Zealand, it elected to leave earlier,” Executive General Manager Competitions & Operations, Sean Gottliebsen said.

“We will continue to work with the clubs on the schedule and travel required, but need to maintain a fixture that prioritises the ability for families to attend between Thursdays and Sundays. We understand this has an impact on the ideal spread of matches.

“Double-headers are common in the NBL and have been a feature of the schedule for several years. Clubs receive the schedule with adequate time to make logistical decisions about how best to navigate the challenges double-headers can present.

“We will continue to work in a positive manner with clubs on the development of the schedule and the complexities surrounding it.”