Basketball: Changes to NBL for 2009

The NBL basketball league has lost another franchise ahead of the 2009 season, however a replacement has already found.

The Canterbury Rams have opted to step aside in favour of the Christchurch Cougars which have satisfied the NBL they will be financially viable next season.

NBL chairman Sam Rossiter-Stead says the Cougars made it easier for the Rams to decide their fate. He says the Rams were keen to ensure a team from Canterbury was competing and they were helped with the Cougars ready to go.

The Rams hope to return in 2010 when the NBL is expected to grant three year licenses.

- NEWSTALK ZB