NB21 Schedule Revealed: Breakers Start Against Scotty Hopson's Melbourne United

The Sky Sport Breakers will begin their quest for a fifth NBL championship with an eye-popping encounter against Scotty Hopson’s Melbourne United.

The NBL has released the first five rounds of what will be a rolling schedule for the season with eight games in 31, including three double headers. 

To prepare accordingly, the Breakers’ New Zealand based players leave for their Melbourne base on December 13 and meet up with Colton Iverson, Dan Trist, Kyrin Galloway and Assistant Coach, Jacob Mooallem the next day.

Lamar Patterson is due to arrive early January.

They will have a month of pre-season training together before the season starts on January 15. 

Dan Shamir should have a fair idea of how good his team is after that first month, with a road trip to Perth to face the defending champions, and three games against last season’s runners-up, Sydney.

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger confirms the schedule will be announced in stages during the season, and that the NBL is still considering the option of using a hub for part of the season. 

“We hope the Breakers will be able to return to New Zealand once border restrictions and scheduling allows for that to happen and play as many games as possible in front of their fans.”

Loeliger says the regular season is expected to finish in May ahead of the finals. 

“Capacities at venues will vary according to their location but the aim is to play as many games in front of as many fans as possible as restrictions are further eased over the coming months. 

“But we will need to remain flexible with our scheduling, and it will be subject to change based on border controls and health advice. 

For example, games in Adelaide have been currently scheduled on the basis that border restrictions will be lifted.” 

NBL Owner and Executive Chairman Larry Kestelman says he could not be more excited about announcing the start of NBL21.

“The NBL is one of Australia’s most popular sports, and fans can’t wait for the season to start. 

“I want to thank all of our clubs, players, staff, officials, and corporate partners for their outstanding support in what has been a long and challenging offseason as we get ready to deliver the NBL’s 43rd consecutive season. 

“Given the challenges of 2020, this is a fantastic outcome to be able to play in front of fans again right across Australia. 

“We now look forward to enjoying world-class basketball and great entertainment over the coming months.” 

Loeliger said the league was finalising its COVID safe protocols with the Clubs ahead of pre-season games across December and January. 

These games would replace the NBL Blitz, which will not be staged this year. 

Start times for games are still to be confirmed, with all of them screening on Sky Sport.