The Breakers' opening Australian National Basketball League game against the Perth Wildcats on January 17 has been postponed due to Covid restrictions.
Breakers power forward Finn Delany Photo: Photosport
Three days after issuing a revised two-round draw, the NBL has made further "unavoidable" changes for the opening round of the competition after Western Australia reinstated its hard border with Queensland following the three-day Brisbane lockdown.
The Wildcats have been in Queensland for pre-season games and been caught out but remain hopeful they can get an exemption to return to Western Australia.
However, they would still be required to self-quarantine for 14-days on their return, which rubs out the opening game against the Breakers in Perth next Sunday.
The Breakers' round two clash against the 36ers in Adelaide on January 20 is almost certain to be their opening game of the season, because there are no Covid cases in South Australia.
There are no plans for the Breakers to move away from their temporary base in Hobart before the start of the season as Tasmania also remains COVID free.
The NBL will now stage games exclusively in South Australia and Queensland for the opening round.
Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said they would continue to monitor the situation in Brisbane.
"We will continue to stay flexible and be guided by the relevant state health authorities, but our intention is still for all teams to play 14 home games across the season when they are able to do so."