The Mount Gambier Pioneers have been refused entry into the 2020 NZ National Basketball League, after falling at the very last step.
Hoping to play at a higher level, the Pioneers' expansion bid was approved by Basketball NZ, but was vetoed by Basketball Australia, due to concerns raised by the Australian NBL.
They would've become the second Australian team in the competition - the Southern Huskies from Tasmania are currently in their first season playing in the NZNBL.
"We have made no secret that the optimum model for our league is 10-12 teams, with two of those teams based in Australia," said NZNBL general manager Justin Nelson.
"It is disappointing that Mount Gambier’s entry into the NZNBL has been prevented.
"The bid by the Pioneers highlighted the professionalism of what is a very successful and proud basketball organisation," he said.
"For some reason, perhaps we are seen as a threat, which - while bizarre - is quite flattering.
"However, we view the NZNBL as a great April-to-August competition, and one that both the Huskies and Pioneers would strongly represent their respective Australian regions in, much like the Breakers do for New Zealand between September and March back the other way."
Mount Gambier president Tom Kosch felt the same way about their exclusion.
"The Pioneers Basketball Club board are extremely disappointed with the decision by Basketball Australia not to grant Mount Gambier the opportunity to pursue the club’s entry into the NZNBL to its full potential," he said.
"The opportunity to work with the NZNBL and the Southern Huskies was an exciting one, and one that would have provided some hope for a sustainable future and restored high-level competition in Mount Gambier."
"I know this disappointment will be shared by our members and community."
While there is disappointment for the Mt Gambier team, the Otago Nuggets are set to make a return to the competition after a five-year absence.
Newshub.
