NBL CEO David Stevenson has provided an update on the potential of an NBA team playing games in Australia, saying the concept remains a “possibility”.
While Stevenson stopped short of confirming any details on when or if a club is set to come to Australia, he did assure the discussions are ongoing.
“We are in a lot of conversations with the NBA, we have built up some strong connections with them. There certainty is a possibility of an NBA team coming out (to Australia),” Stevenson told SEN.
Stevenson also explained what the concept could look like in a perfect world from a timeframe and opponent perspective.
“It would be that early October time slot. Just after we get started, to be able to have something early in October when they’re (NBA) in their training camp phase,” he said.
“That’s the sweet spot because once you get to the end of October, they’re in their regular season competition.
“Whether or not they might play against an NBL All-Star team or perhaps one of the club teams, but at least our teams are fully prepared, they’re in season, and they’re going to be at their best which would be a pretty remarkable opportunity if it came off.”
NBL teams have travelled to America and Canada to face NBA teams in their pre-season in five of the past seven years.