Back | Print

Darwin will host this year’s NBL pre-season Top End Challenge featuring all NBL eight teams, Sports Minister Karl Hampton announced today.

 

“I am delighted that the National Basketball League has selected Darwin to host its pre-season Top End Challenge featuring all eight NBL teams from 3-5 September,” Mr Hampton said.

 

“The Territory Government is providing $100,000 to host the three day tournament at Marrara.

 

“This Government has a proud record of hosting premier sporting events – particularly those sports that have produced home grown stars such as Cairns Taipans star Gary Boodnikoff.

 

“We are very proud to host this year’s Challenge and showcase our international sporting facilities against the backdrop of Darwin’s thriving sporting, business and cultural opportunities.”

 

Tournament director and NBL legend Andrew Vlahov said this year’s Top End Challenge replaces the annual Perth Wildcats home game – bringing every NBL team together in the pre-season carnival before the NBL season begins on 24 September.

 

“Basketball has a huge following in Darwin – fans will get to see how each team is shaping up for the upcoming season and interact closely with the players,” Mr Vlahov said.

 

“Darwin basketball fans would be able to see all eight teams in action instead of two.

 

“This will be the biggest basketball event in Darwin’s history and will be a great chance for Territory youngsters to meet and see the best NBL players in action.”

 

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock said the event was a unique one on the NBL calendar.

 

“The teams will conduct several community engagement programs such as basketball clinics, school visits and hospital visits which will reinforce that Basketball is truly Everyone’s Game,” Mr Sengstock said.

 

“Basketball Australia is very grateful for the support of the Northern Territory Government and Basketball NT who have allowed us to bring this fantastic event to Darwin.”

 

The tournament will be held at the Marrara Indoor Stadium, which has hosted a number of Perth Wildcats’ home games in recent seasons.

 

Each team will have a minimum of three full games, playing in an elimination format on Marrara’s two courts.

 

Tip-off times will be staggered to start at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm with the grand final scheduled for Saturday, 5 September. Tickets will go on sale in August.

 

Contact: Edwin Edlund 0401 119 563

Related files:
Hampton.29.07.Blitz.pdf ( 279.05 kb )