Teams
Sandringham Sabres
Frankston Blues
Mount Gambier Pioneers
Hobart Chargers
Knox Raiders
Diamond Valley Eagles
Bendigo Braves
Kilsyth Cobras
Eltham Wildcats
Nunawading Spectres
Geelong Supercats
Waverley Falcons
NW Tasmania Thunder
Ballarat Miners
Melbourne Tigers
Ringwood Hawks
Dandenong Rangers
Casey Cavaliers
Keilor Thunder
Albury Wodonga Bandits
Wikipedia - NBL1 South
NBL1 South is a semi-professional basketball league in Victoria and Tasmania, Australia, comprising both a men's and women's competition. In 2019, Basketball Victoria partnered with the National Basketball League (NBL) to create NBL1. NBL1 South was the lone conference in 2019, with North, Central, West and East joining over the proceeding three years. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NBL1 South did not have a season in 2020 and only half a season in 2021.
History
In October 2018, following the demise of the South East Australian Basketball League (SEABL), Basketball Victoria announced a new senior elite league to take the reins as Australia's pre-eminent semi-professional basketball league. All Victorian-based SEABL teams joined the new league, while Eltham Wildcats, Knox Raiders, Ringwood Hawks and Waverley Falcons also joined the league from the Big V. The North-West Tasmania Thunder men and Launceston Tornadoes women also kept their place, as did Basketball Australia's Centre of Excellence teams. In February 2019, the league was named NBL1 after Basketball Victoria partnered with the National Basketball League (NBL).
The NBL1 in 2019 was a single league and consisted of one conference. After a successful first season, the NBL expanded the NBL1 in 2020 by introducing Basketball Victoria's inaugural 2019 league and teams as the new South Conference and partnering with Basketball Queensland and Basketball South Australia to make the Queensland Basketball League (QBL) and South Australian Premier League the new North and Central conferences. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 season was cancelled for all three conferences.
On 1 September 2021, the 2021 NBL1 South season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Victoria. With a combined 154 men's and women's games that could not be completed, it was decided to abandon the season with no champions and no individual awards.
The tournament brings together some of the best basketball teams from various cities and states, creating an electrifying atmosphere for both players and fans. With its rich history and tradition, the Australia NBL1 South has become a prestigious event that attracts top-tier athletes and dedicated supporters.
The competition features intense matchups between teams, each vying for the coveted championship title. The level of skill and athleticism displayed by the players is truly remarkable, making every game a thrilling spectacle. From fast-paced dribbling and precise shooting to strategic plays and powerful dunks, the tournament showcases the full range of basketball prowess.
The Australia NBL1 South also serves as a platform for emerging talents to shine. Young players have the opportunity to showcase their skills and catch the attention of scouts and coaches, potentially opening doors to higher levels of competition. This aspect of the tournament adds an element of excitement and anticipation, as fans eagerly watch for the next rising star.
In addition to the on-court action, the Australia NBL1 South offers a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for spectators. The tournament attracts a diverse crowd of basketball enthusiasts, creating a lively and energetic ambiance. Fans can expect thrilling halftime performances, interactive activities, and opportunities to meet their favorite players, making it an unforgettable experience for all.
Overall, the Australia NBL1 South is a premier basketball tournament that celebrates the sport's excellence and passion in the southern region of Australia. With its high-level competition, emerging talents, and vibrant atmosphere, it is a must-see event for basketball fans and a testament to the country's love for the game.