February 17th, 2010 by Dusty Rychart

The NBL is in the same position as it was last year deciding on what teams to let into the new league. It seems after a year nothing really has changed and once again the NBL is making last minute adjustments on what teams can meet the criteria.

This is my third team in just as many years that has been financially troubled. The Taipan’s met the criteria for the 2009/2010 season but are coming up short and have been granted a few more days to get everything in line. Still around 400,000 short of corporate sponsorship it doesn’t look healthy but we are surviving. It’s tough being in this position as a player because you’re totally helpless. You just have to sit back and let things take their course and hope for the best. Personally I have never liked waiting around to hear my fate and that’s been the trend for most my time in Australia. Every team seems to have some money problems at some time or another. Not sure how you can fix it but personally it’s the worst part. Not knowing your future is something that many have experienced over the last few years with the global financial crisis and it’s not easy. I can honestly say that the Taipan’s players have gone out and done more in the community than any other team in the NBL and any team that I have played for. We are out in schools, malls and promos every week trying to reach out to the grass roots. There is a lot of love for the Taipans in FNQ but love can’t get you over the line, money does.

The NBL playoffs start tomorrow Perth vs GC. Should be an interesting game but without Ubaka and a full strength Petrie I can’t see the Blaze winning this series. Perth are way too strong at home and sure the Blaze beat them there earlier in the season but that was with a full squad. I think the Blaze peaked way too early. Predictions – Wildcats in 3.

Hawks vs Crocs could be the most fun to watch series of the playoffs. Hawks are super tough at home and the Crocs have been up and down all year winning some at home and some on the road. If the Hawks can hold their home court it could be a Perth vs Hawks battle of the home courts for the championship.