Northern Tasmania Basketball Club awarded NBL1 South license
The See Eyecare Launceston Tornadoes are proud to announce that the Northern Tasmania Basketball Club, a newly established entity created to unify and strengthen elite basketball across the region, has been granted an NBL1 South licence commencing in the 2026 season.
This announcement marks a major milestone for basketball in Northern Tasmania. It follows months of dedicated work, community consultation, and a detailed assessment process by the relevant governing bodies. The decision reflects confidence in a model designed to deliver sustainable, community driven, and high performing programs for men and women.
The Northern Tasmania Basketball Club will operate under a single governance structure to deliver stronger on court performance, clearer pathways for athletes, and long term financial sustainability.
From 2026, the club will compete in the NBL1 South competition with both men’s and women’s teams. A dual-hub model will see games, practices, and development programs delivered across both Launceston and the North West and all fixtures will be delivered as double headers showcasing both teams together.
Board composition, branding and coaching appointments will be finalised in the coming months, with further announcements to follow as the foundations of the new club are established.
The creation of the Northern Tasmania Basketball Club is about more than just on court competition. It is a model designed to serve the whole basketball community by:
Expanding player pathways: Delivering trials, training, and development opportunities across both regions will strengthen grassroots-to-elite progression and ensure that local athletes can access clear pathways to the highest level.
Growing commercial strength: With access to two major markets, the new entity will broaden sponsorship opportunities, build stronger community partnerships, and deliver higher game day revenues.
Supporting officials: Providing more opportunities for referees and technical officials at NBL1 level, ensuring Northern Tasmania contributes to the growth of basketball talent both on and off the court.
Strengthening alignment with NBL1 objectives: By delivering professional standards of competition, governance, and community engagement, the club will help reinforce Tasmania’s reputation as a key contributor to the national basketball ecosystem.
Vice Chair Madi Shepherd said the licence approval is the beginning of a new chapter. “This is only the beginning. The hard work lies ahead, and we are determined to move quickly and purposefully to ensure that the Northern Tasmania Basketball Club is ready to succeed in 2026 and beyond. Our goal is to create a club that is financially sustainable, professionally run, and deeply connected to the communities it represents.”
While efforts were made to pursue a united pathway with the North West Thunder organisation, that possibility did not come to fruition. The focus now is firmly on building the strongest possible future for basketball in Northern Tasmania, and all who share this vision are welcomed to join us in shaping this exciting new era.
The Tornadoes wish to thank Basketball Tasmania, Basketball Victoria, and the many stakeholders, volunteers, and community members who supported this application. Their trust and backing have been vital to achieving this milestone.
With the licence now secured, the task shifts from planning to delivery. The Northern Tasmania Basketball Club is ready to begin work on building a sustainable and successful organisation. One that represents the whole region proudly and ensures that Northern Tasmania remains a thriving part of the NBL1 South competition.
