Slam dunks rumours of sale
ment than what we’ve done the last two and a-half years, continuing to support the club during Covid, with zero home-game revenue.
‘‘The team is not on the market, and has never been on the market. This is something we love, and barring someone coming in with a massive cheque that would be too good to say no to, we’re as committed as ever.’’
Walsh, now based in Austin, Texas, said he had done it tough watching the strong start to the season from afar and confirmed plans to return to Auckland soon.
‘‘I’m dealing with some personal stuff back home, some family issues with my parents, and that’s just the nature of getting older,’’ he said. ‘‘I’m absolutely gutted I haven’t been there for this awesome start. My plan is to come over in December-January, depending on some things back here in the States.’’
The Breakers owner also explained what he saw as the key factor behind the club’s resurgence in ‘22-23, following tough hauls in ‘20-21 (8-28) and ‘21-22 (5-23)..
‘‘We’re the only professional sports organisation in the world that was out of our market for two years. I think that’s hardened us, and made us tough. The fact now we’re dealing with some crazy travel and we’re able to overcome those obstacles . . . our staff and players are resilient.
‘‘[Coach] Mody [Maor] has elevated the club and done everything we could have asked for. I think I drive him nuts with my texts and calls, but he’s been amazing.’’
In terms of the tough schedule through the first part of the NBL season (continuing this weekend with a Cairns away-Brisbane home Friday-Sunday double), Walsh toed a conciliatory line, conceding it was always going to be a challenging load for a Kiwi team in an Australian league.