Photo: Monica Toretto
The Sal’s NBL is making waves with a groundbreaking new rule set to revolutionise the way the game is played: the Power Play. Starting this season, each team will be given one 60-second window per game where all points scored will count for double.
This bold new move promises to ramp up the drama and excitement of every match, giving fans edge-of-their-seat moments and forcing teams to rethink their strategies. The introduction of the Power Play is poised to add a fresh, unpredictable element to the game that will keep spectators, coaches, and players on their toes throughout the 2025 season.
The concept behind the Power Play is simple but intense. Each team will have one opportunity during the game to activate the Power Play by advising the scorebench. Once activated, the team will have a 60-second window where every basket they score will count for double points.
For example, a 3-pointer made during the Power Play will be worth 6 points, and a dunk worth 2 points will count as 4. Fans will be encouraged to cheer and amplify the energy of the moment, further boosting the intensity. After the 60 seconds are up, the Power Play will automatically end, and the game continues as normal. Teams will need to use this opportunity wisely, deciding whether to go for quick points or strategise for a more significant game-changing play.
Casey Frank, former NBL player and current Leagues Media, Fans, and Brand Manager, couldn’t contain his excitement about the new rule:
"The Power Play is going to completely change how teams strategise. We’ve always known momentum can shift in an instant, but this will take it to another level. The intensity and pressure will be off the charts. Teams are going to need to be so smart with when they use it, and with the stakes so high, the pressure is going to be insane. It’ll be interesting to see how coaches incorporate this into their game plans."
The Sal’s NBL is always looking for innovative ways to enhance the game for both players and fans.
"The Power Play is part of our ongoing efforts to bring exciting, fast-paced action to the court. We know our fans love big plays and intense moments, and now, every game will have a new level of unpredictability. The Power Play will create those 'game on the line' moments that will get everyone talking. We’re all about enhancing the live experience for fans, and we’re confident that this rule will be a massive hit. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing an underdog team get a chance to make an incredible comeback with double points? It’s going to be a lot of fun." said Casey Frank.
The introduction of the Power Play is expected to completely shift how games are approached. With each team having one 60-second opportunity to rack up double points, teams will need to carefully consider how to use their Power Play to gain an advantage.
Will teams use the Power Play early to build a lead, or will they wait for a high-stakes moment in the fourth quarter? Could a last-minute double-point three-pointer change the course of a game?
One thing is for certain: the 2025 Sal’s NBL season just got a whole lot more exciting.
While the Power Play rule sounds exciting, it’s all in the spirit of fun—just an April Fools’ prank! As much as we love to bring fresh, innovative ideas to the game, there’s no Power Play rule in the Sal’s NBL for the 2025 season (at least not yet!). We hope this gave you a good laugh and we can’t wait to see you at the games!
