NBL Returns to Northern Territory

From the nbl

NBL STARS BOUNCE BACK TO THE TERRITORY

Northern Territory sports fans are set for a feast of top-level basketball after Minister for Sport and Recreation Karl Hampton today announced the return of National Basketball League action for the NBL Top End Challenge 2010.
“Basketball is a hugely popular sport in the Territory and I am excited to announce today that the official 2010 NBL pre-season competition will be held in Alice Springs and Darwin in September,” said Mr Hampton.
“Last year’s tournament was a great success, raising the profile of basketball in the Territory, creating business opportunities, and thrilling crowds with spectacular hoops action.
“Today I can confirm that the NBL’s finest will be returning to the Territory in September to thrill crowds at Marrara Indoor Stadium and the Alice Springs Basketball Stadium for the Top End Challenge.”
Mr Hampton said it is particularly good news for the Centralian basketball community.
“It’s fantastic to be able to bring this event to fans in Alice Springs, who have not seen an NBL game for more than a decade; I am sure they will make the opening game a blockbuster.”
The tournament is expected to feature all nine teams from the expanded NBL competition, including the newly returned Sydney Kings franchise.
“The NBL is rebuilding strongly and we look forward to seeing the return of the mighty Sydney Kings for their first games in the new-look competition,” said Mr Hampton.
NBL legend and Basketball Australia Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock said fans could expect a terrific showcase of the country’s best ballers.
“The Top End Challenge is a unique event on the NBL calendar in that it brings all of our players and coaches together in the one place right before the season tip-off.
“Last year’s event in Darwin was a resounding success and we are delighted to work with the Minister to bring the Top End Challenge back to the Northern Territory in 2010. It will be a fantastic opportunity for Territorians to see world class basketball in their own backyard,” said Mr Sengstock.
As well as playing 12 games, teams will take part in an extensive community engagement program conducting coaching clinics in schools and communities across the Territory, and conducting hospital visits.
“The NT Government is committed to providing elite events for all Territory sports fans and this $200,000 agreement with the NBL cements us as a mainstay of the Australian basketball landscape,” said Mr Hampton.