Within the next two years the National Basketball League (NBL) plans to set up a new basketball club in China. This club will be based part-time on the Gold Coast, according to the Melbourne-based Herald Sun.

Under the bold proposal, the new NBL club will be made up predominantly of Chinese free agents and some imports. The club will also have a strong connection with the Gold Coast, where it will play at least some of its home games and base itself while in Australia.

As revealed in the report, the NBL has sought approval from the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and FIBA for a new entity to join its competition.

As NBL executive director Larry Kestelman said, adding a new team from China would be a “game-changer”. They are also considering future expansion into the Philippines.

“We’re in the hands of the CBA and we have to always respect FIBA, and the ultimate decision will be with them and if they allow it,” Kestelman added.

Source: Herald Sun

Proofread by Sean O Diobhilin.