Concerns raised over safety of court
BRISBANE: The Australian NBL has been urged to take action after slippery oncourt stickers at Adelaide’s home court were again slammed as an accident waiting to happen.
The Australian Basketball Players’ Association (ABPA) has demanded the NBL address the issue after players continually slipped on the sponsor decals in Friday’s clash between the Adelaide 36ers and New Zealand Breakers.
Former Adelaide and Sydney Kings star import Jerome Randle was watching the game and led a chorus of warnings.
‘‘I’m sure the @NBL care about the players safety, have to find another way to promote sponsors, those decals on the court are dangerous,’’ he tweeted.
‘‘Trust me I know; not good for players making cuts and hard plants in the area. Protect the players, ACL (knee injuries) ain’t pretty.’’
The ABPA raised concerns with the NBL and Adelaide Entertainment Centre management after the season opener and work was done to alleviate the dangers.
But on Saturday it said the danger remained and more action was needed.
‘‘The ABPA is requiring further action be taken to ensure all necessary and appropriate measures are employed to protect our members’ safety,’’ a statement read.
‘‘Player safety is the ABPA’s highest priority and our members must be provided a safe workplace environment at every game.’’
Digital projection of oncourt signage only viewable on television is used in various leagues around the world and has been suggested as a possible solution.
The New Zealand side, which lost forward Daniel Trist before the game because of a Covid19 protocol breach, will get the chance to avenge Friday’s 9491 loss in a rematch with Adelaide at the same venue on Wednesday night. — AAP/RNZ