The Australian National Basketball Leagues's "top brass has reached out to jittery fans fearful for the competition's future," repeating its message that the '15-16 season "will be going ahead," according to Ben McKay of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. And not only that, the NBL "hope it will be televised." Interim NBL CEO Bret Mactavish has "sought to prevent a bunfight over players," delaying the introduction of the free agency period until May. The move also "helps an expansion team in Brisbane," which has six weeks to "declare its hand and still target the best free agents." New Chair Graeme Wade "addressed some of the many vagaries in the season ahead" on the league's website. Wade said there "won't be a one-off injection of league funds to bail-out" the Wollongong Hawks or the Townsville Crocs. Wade: "The NBL have already invested substantial finances and resources into these clubs. This isn't sustainable long-term as we need to retain funds at league level" (SMH, 3/18).
SECURE FUTURE: The Scotland DAILY RECORD reported British Basketball League side Glasgow Rocks' "immediate future in the top flight, along with their 12 fellow British Basketball League clubs, has been assured" following talks over "potentially radical changes" within the sport. The "guarantee comes amid discussions over a rumoured eight-figure cash injection" from N.Y.-based investors who are seeking a 10-year license to run the U.K.’s professional league as well as "exploiting the commercial rights from the national teams and grassroots" (DAILY RECORD, 3/18).
