For the first time, the National Basketball League (NBL) Blitz tournament will take place in the Territory, with the much-anticipated event to begin tomorrow. The Blitz will see all 10 NBL teams compete as part of a pre-season tournament from 16-23 September at Darwin Basketball Stadium in Marrara.
Tickets to NBL Blitz games are selling quickly, with the grandstand already sold out for this Saturday’s fixture featuring Tasmania vs Sydney, and Perth vs Cairns. A few VIP tickets are still available, but fans are encouraged to secure their seat for the remaining matches quickly to avoid missing out.
NBL supporters from across Australia are expected to descend upon the Top End for the high-profile event, giving local businesses a welcome boost during the Territory’s shoulder season. Thousands more sports fans across the nation will be tuning in, with games streamed on Kayo Freebies.
In addition to the exciting 15-game competition, there will also be a 3×3 Pro Hustle Tournament, and NBL teams will participate in a number of community engagement activities. The Adelaide 36ers are visiting school students in Alice Springs today before making their way to the Top End, where more teams will be involved in school and public appearances.
NBL fans will have the opportunity to meet basketball heavyweights such as three-time NBL MVP Bryce Cotton as part of a Perth Wildcats signing session on Sunday from 2-3pm at the Darwin Waterfront. The signing will take place in conjunction with the 3×3, which will run from 17-18 September and is free to attend.
The Blitz will feature some of the biggest names in the sport, such as Brisbane Bullets’ Aron Baynes and Antonius Cleveland of the Adelaide 36ers. The winning team will take home the Loggins-Bruton Cup, and the tournament’s most outstanding player will be awarded the Ray Borner Medal.
