“New Level” reached as NBL adds Play-In tournament for NBL23
The NBL will introduce a Play-In tournament for NBL23. This will expand the postseason from four to six teams. (Photo: Tasmania JackJumpers)
National Basketball League Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger has stated that the NBL’s newest addition of the Play-In will see the league reach a “new level of importance and intensity”.
“The end of the season will have a new level of importance and intensity, not to mention three new postseason blockbusters,” Loeliger said.
Loeliger went onto say the play-in will add excitement and intrigue for NBL fans.
“Most importantly, more teams will remain in the championship hunt for longer, meaning more fans will continue to be engaged during what will be a more exhilarating finish to the season.”
“The magnitude of these play-in games will be enormous with the fate of some clubs to be determined by do-or-die contests that promise to deliver a thrilling atmosphere.”
The NBL announced during last years’ finals that a play-in tournament would be implemented for NBL23.
They didn’t know at the time what form it would take, but Loeliger said “finals spots will be decided in new and innovative ways, and an extra layer of excitement will be added for our fans.”
The official announcement was made this morning by the NBL that a six-team postseason would take place. This would include a play-in round that would see teams seeded third through sixth compete for a spot in the finals.
Loeliger said the NBL studied the NBA’s model of the play-in and “[we] are confident ours will see similar success”.
The NBL23 season tips-off October 1st when the South-East Melbourne Phoenix take on the Tasmania JackJumpers. Which will be followed by the Illawarra Hawks facing the Sydney Kings.