Home edge at risk for Hobart
HOBART’S crucial homecourt advantage in the NBL1 could be affected if the side was forced to play in front of an empty stadium, coach Anthony Stewart fears.
As sporting organisations across the world begin putting contingency plans in place for the deadly virus, the Chargers could face a similar scenario in hosting matches in an empty Aurora Sports Stadium.
The Chargers attract arguably the biggest crowd figures in the league — a record 3500 packed the Derwent Entertainment Centre for the SEABL preliminary final two years ago — a factor Stewart believes is an integral part of his outfit’s success.
Hobart returns to the New Town venue this year because of the planned redevelopment of the DEC slated to begin in August.
“It won’t be that unusual on the road but at home it will be a different feel altogether,” Stewart said.
“We have protected our home court, that has been really important to us over the last few years.
“I think we have lost six or seven games over three or four years, that is a vital part of us winning championships, having that momentum and home crowd, it’s our biggest advantage.”
NBL1 league manager Dean Anglin is confident the 2020 season will kick off as usual.
“We are communicating with the clubs and at this stage we are not anticipating there will be any impact on the start of the NBL1 season.
“But, like all sports, we will be guided by advice from the relevant health authorities and our medical officer and act accordingly.”
Stewart was speaking at the announcement of the governing body’s Tasmanian Junior Basketball League.
The inaugural competition, which will begin Anzac Day weekend, will feature 186 junior teams over two conferences in the south and north of the state.
“Prior to this year you have had your rep basketball during the week, all the best players are playing on Tuesday or Thursday nights,” Stewart said.
“The opportunity now, for the south in particular, is all the players will be playing across domestic and rep basketball on a Saturday and Sunday in one gym.”