The Sal's NBL can confirm the reason for a delayed start in last night's game at the Edgar Centre between the Go Media Otago Nuggets and SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks was due to a water leak on the venue's showcourt.
The leak was discovered as both teams were warming up prior to tip-off, and was located in the keyway at one end of the court, creating a dangerous situation for players and officials.
League General Manager Justin Nelson was in attendance at the game and working together with Nuggets staff and the Game Commissioner promptly decided to move the game to an adjacent court.
As a result the start of the game was delayed by 15 minutes.
"While it's unfortunate we couldn't play on the showcourt due to the leak, the health and safety of our players and officials is always our top priority and at no stage will we put them in a dangerous situation," said Nelson.
"I want to extend my sincere thanks to both Rob Beveridge and Brent Matehaere who both immediately agreed to the quick change and worked with me to ensure the players were ready and able to adapt to the situation. Both coaches acted very professionally.
"The Nuggets and venue staff, volunteers and fans were quite amazing. At one stage we had so many people pitching in to help move seating, signs, tables and carpeting, even some of the players. It was remarkable that the game was only briefly delayed.
"In particular a big thank you to our valued fans. There was a big crowd at the game and their patience, understanding and support was terrfic to see," Nelson added.
The Sharks went on to win the game 85-78 in the first clash between the local southern rivals since 2014.
The full game report can be found - HERE.
