Coronavirus puts paid to SBL tip-off

The State Basketball League won’t be tipping off this season, as coronavirus restrictions mean it wouldn’t be completed in time.

The SBL hinted that basketball may look different going forward.

“Basketball WA has notified all SBL clubs, due to the COVID-19 restrictions and the resultant inability to be able to complete a season within the required time or under the various restrictions that will be needed to participate in the foreseeable future, it has abandoned the season and will look towards the planning for 2021,” according to an SBL statement.

“The decision to cancel was not taken lightly,” it said.

“Although difficult, we feel it gives us all the best chance to ensure we are able to compete in 2021.”

It said Basketball WA and the SBL would aim to provide the semi-professional players involved in the league with other activities over the winter to keep fit and stay involved.

In a separate statement, Basketball WA said community basketball training could go ahead in groups of no more than 20 from Monday, with other restrictions in place.

The SBL couldn’t immediately be reached for further comment.