One in, all in! That's the approach all nine teams in the Sal's NBL will take this season when from next Thursday night's season opener the fans will get to meet the home town players after every game.
In a league-wide move aimed at taking fan-engagement to a new level, following the final buzzer after every game in the NBL the home team will remain on court for at least 15 minutes to meet the fans, sign autographs and take photos.
It's a move NBL General Manager Justin Nelson believes will be the cornerstone to the league's "fans first" focus.
"Many of the teams already stay on court to meet the fans after games, but we wanted to make it a highlight at every game in the competition and I'm pleased to say that all nine teams immediately supported the initiative," said Nelson.
That support also came from the coaches, who will all bypass any immediate team meeting back in the changerooms after the final whistle and will instead leave their players on the court to meet the fans.
"Win or lose, the priority for the home team after the final buzzer will be to spend some time with their fans. The coaches have been terrific, they are keen to support the initiative and believe it's good to be giving back to the fans. The coaches are a very positive group and instantly approved the idea."
Forming an integral part of the NBL's 2023 Growth Strategy, Nelson says fan engagement is a top priority.
"We want to take engagement and the overall fan experience to a new level. The fans come first. There's not too many sports where the stars of the show stick around after the last play and dedicate meaningful time to meeting those who paid to come along and watch them in action. In the NBL, that's exactly what we'll do.
"If you attend an NBL game, you will get to the meet the home team after the game. Everyone's welcome, bring something to be signed or ask for a photo. Say hello to your role models. This is your chance to meet the stars of the game," Nelson added.
The 2019 Sal's NBL tips off next Thursday with five games schedule for the opening round.
Thursday April 11 - Jets vs Rangers
Friday April 12 - Saints vs Hawks
Saturday April 13 - Hawks vs Rangers
Saturday April 13 - Giants vs Airs
Sunday April 14 - Sharks vs Rams
