NBL takes a punt on 'Magnificent 7'
TweetSEVEN NBL matches this round to re-energise a season floundering through COVID-related postponements, is another case of magnificent optimism which, hopefully for all of us, bears fruit. There would be little better than the 2021-22 season finally getting going again.
Incoming South East Melbourne Phoenix import Brandon Ashley most likely will be relieved he is no longer with New Zealand, the Breakers with three matches to negotiate this round.
Ashley, a 206cm power forward who spent some time with the Breakers, replaces sacked Phoenix import Devin "Who The Hell Was He Anyway?" Thomas after code of conduct breaches.
The draw at present looks like this:
Illawarra Hawks v Sydney Kings
Thursday January 13, 7:30pm AEDT
WIN Entertainment Centre
ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel
New Zealand Breakers v Melbourne United
Friday January 14, 7:30pm AEDT
MyState Bank Arena
ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel
Brisbane Bullets v South East Melbourne Phoenix
Saturday January 15, 5:30pm AEDT
Nissan Arena
ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel
Illawarra Hawks v Melbourne United
Sunday January 16, 1:00pm AEDT
WIN Entertainment Centre
10 Peach, Kayo Freebies
Sydney Kings v New Zealand Breakers
Sunday January 16, 3:00pm AEDT
Qudos Bank Arena
10 Peach, Kayo Freebies
Adelaide 36ers v Perth Wildcats
Tuesday January 18, 7:30pm AEDT
Adelaide Entertainment Centre
ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel
New Zealand Breakers v Tasmania JackJumpers
Wednesday January 19, 7:30pm AEDT
MyState Bank Arena
ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel
Tasmania JackJumpers v New Zealand Breakers, Cairns Taipans v Melbourne United, Illawarra Hawks v Perth Wildcats and Adelaide 36ers v Tasmania JackJumpers will be rescheduled.
"The health and safety of the players, coaches, clubs, staff and fans is the League’s number one priority when considering these matters," the NBL said in an issued statement.
"The NBL will continue to follow the advice of governments and health authorities.
"Regular testing of all players and staff will continue, while further testing will be carried out on individuals impacted or those deemed close contacts."
Meanwhile, here's our tips for the round: