WE moved into November earlier this week, which means the upcoming season of the National Basketball League (NBL) is just over a month away. The season was delayed due to the continued restrictions around the country, and the late start will likely see fans back in the building when the season kicks off proceedings in early December. This upcoming season should see plenty of storylines across the league, both thanks to new narratives and continuations of some from last season. This article looks at three matches that should be considered must-watches for any basketball fans around Australia. With plenty of teams heading into the season with their own agendas, there are plenty of intriguing matches scheduled for the upcoming campaign.

Tasmania JackJumpers vs Brisbane Bullets

Friday December 14

MyState Bank Arena

The opening day of NBL action will see the debut of the competition’s newest expansion side, as the Tasmania JackJumpers hit the court for the first time. The Apple Isle has been yearning for a professional basketball side for years, and this will finally come to fruition when they take on the Adelaide 36ers in their first outing. With a mix of NBL veterans and fresh faces, the JackJumpers will be an exciting team to watch in the season’s first weekend of action.

The match will also mark the first regular season match hosted at the MyState Bank Arena, which will likely be packed to capacity with Tasmanian fans. The stadium is marketed as state of the art, so there is no time wasted in the venue hosting a match. With plenty of local support behind the team, expect the stands to be rocking when the JackJumpers run out for the first time.

Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United

Saturday December 5

Qudos Bank Arena

The final match of the season’s opening round will see the reigning premiers one of the first sides in action, as they take on the Sydney Kings to kick off their 2021/22 action. This will be the first game for United since their grand final win earlier this year, and with a slightly new-look squad, there will be plenty of eyes from around the league on this contest. With two successful clubs going head-to-head in a bid to start their seasons off in ideal fashion, there is no doubt that this will be one of the most watched games of the season.

United will be unleashing the talents of offseason recruit and Australian basketball hero Matthew Dellavedova, who fills the void of point guard for the team. Dellavedova has proven himself on the court both domestically and internationally, so the Breakers may have their hands full.

Perth Wildcats vs Melbourne United

Friday February 18

RAC Arena

Our final match for this article sees a grand final rematch take place later in the season, with the Perth Wildcats seeking revenge against last year’s premiers in Melbourne United. Last year’s grand final saw these two sides go head to head in a duel that saw United emerge victorious, and with a strengthened team this year thanks to the addition of Dellavedova, they will be looking to defend their title in their quest to claim consecutive titles.

The Wildcats have a new coach at the helm and while they lost some key personnel in the offseason, they will regain star Bryce Cotton, who was missing in last season’s finals series. There will be no questions over their motivation, with the side eager to amend their disappointing finish to the postseason, and with a rejuvenated squad, they have all the tools to achieve this goal.

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