Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) has expressed its disappointment at litigation by one of its 10 clubs but declined to square up off the court over allegations of threatening behaviour.
The NBL responded to media reports the Illawarra Hawks were taking legal action against the privately-owned league to obtain financial and commercial information.
The League issued a formal statement to Azzet following reports Hawks owner Jared Novelly claimed he was allegedly threatened by NBL owner Larry Kestelman for agitating for a team charter that would align the way each club operates.
The current NBL champions are reportedly seeking details including the NBL’s financial position, licencing agreements and advertising sales, and information about 2024 champions the Tasmania JackJumpers, which is 49% owned by Kestelman.
The billionaire, who rescued the league when it was struggling in 2015, plans to sell his remaining stake in the JackJumpers by 2027.
An NBL spokesperson said in a statement to Asset: “Despite Mr Novelly’s threats, there has been no claim brought against the NBL, just a fishing expedition.
“The NBL is disappointed to see Mr Novelly misusing the Club and Court process to generate media attention.
“We will address Mr Novelly's allegations through the proper channels.”
The Hawks and its legal representatives were also approached on Wednesday about the reports in the Australian Financial Review, Sydney Morning Herald and The Age newspapers but had provided no comment at the time of writing.
Azzet has confirmed that a summons has been issued in the NSW Supreme Court in the matter of Illawarra Basketball Club Pty Ltd versus National Basketball League Pty Ltd.
Once a statement of claim has been served, the defendant has 28 days to file a defence and, once the plaintiff has been served with the defence, it may file a reply within 14 days.
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