Taipans to host 2021 season opener

The CQUniversity Cairns Taipans will host the 2021 NBL season opener on Friday 15 January, in a revised schedule that was released by the league this morning. The Taipans will play the Hawks twice in the opening weekend, first on Friday night and then on Sunday afternoon at the Cairns Pop-up Arena.

In a response to the changing COVID-19 landscape and travel restrictions, the NBL have modified the fixtures and announced the first two rounds of the “rolling” schedule, with the Taipans hosting four games across the first fortnight.

While dates and opponents have changed, the NBL have reiterated that the first five rounds will still be played in home venues, and that schedule for rounds 3 – 5 will be released soon. The Taipans are planning for at least another four games in Cairns before mid-February.

Taipans CEO Mark Beecroft said that the Orange Army would be thrilled to host the season opener, and after a lengthy off-season it would be a fitting reward to get basketball back first.

“We are really fortunate that our fans have been so patient with us – it’s obviously been a bumpy off-season with various delays and I want to thank all of our members and corporate partners for their understanding over the past year.  

“It’s been challenging for our club as well, but now we can all look forward to hosting the very first game of the NBL season as our housewarming party of the pop-up arena,” he said.

“Of course, we recognise that the nature of the rolling schedule is frustrating, especially when it comes to planning arounds games. But from staff to spectators, we all need to take this season as it comes and adapt accordingly, the best we can.  

“We are extremely grateful that our team will get to play, we’re excited for the competition and I hope that our fans can enjoy the ride with us.”

The NBL have also announced that the hub and the “Cup” competition will go ahead as planned in Melbourne from February 20, where all nine teams will play 36 games in four weeks.

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger acknowledged the inconvenience for teams and fans across the country but said this tactic would deliver NBL clubs a full season at home with the customary 14 games.

“We always knew we would have to respond to the challenges of COVID-19 and the travel restrictions that would be imposed by our various State Governments from time to time. This is why we proceeded on the basis of a rolling schedule, which will hopefully minimise the inconvenience for our teams and our fans.

“These changes will give of our Australian-based clubs the best opportunity to each play 14 home games across the season and be part of the NBL Cup in Melbourne, the biggest event we have ever staged.”

Due to the introduction of new NBL COVID-19 protocols and required player restrictions, the Taipans will not be able to hold the traditional Members Day or Corporate Launch prior to the start of the 2021 NBL season. The club will be in touch regarding an alternative members-only event and corporate invitations throughout the season.

Please note: Taipans HQ will be closed today Wednesday 6 January from 2:00pm. Tickets for the Taipans pre-season game on Saturday 9 January (against Adelaide, 6:00pm) are still available online here.