NBL

NBL stands for National Basketball League. It is the top professional men’s basketball competition in Australia and New Zealand, founded in 1979. The league brings together clubs from both countries and operates as a cross-border competition focused on high-level basketball and player development. Over the years, the NBL has expanded its reach and helped raise the profile of basketball in the region.

The competition format typically includes a regular season in which teams play a set schedule, followed by a postseason series to determine the champion. The exact number of teams and rounds has changed with expansion and contraction over time. The league uses a salary cap and rules governing foreign players to maintain competitive balance and support local talent. It also runs development programs such as the NBL Next Stars to showcase young players from around the world and provide a bridge to higher-level professional leagues.

The NBL has grown in popularity through improved broadcasting, streaming, and attendance, contributing to a higher level of competition and attracting international players and coaches. Although smaller in scope than some other professional leagues, it is regarded as a strong regional competition and has become a stepping stone for players aiming for careers in the NBA or European leagues.

Disambiguation: NBL may refer to other national basketball leagues, or historical leagues with the same acronym in different countries. In context, it is usually clear whether one means the Australian–New Zealand National Basketball League or another organization.