Race for NBL expansion enters critical phase

17 Jun 2026

Both Gold Coast and Canberra are reportedly in the mix for an expansion side in the Hungry Jack's NBL.

By

NBL.com.au

Momentum continues to build for the Gold Coast to secure the 11th licence for the Hungry Jack’s NBL, but one key element looms crucial in their potential bid.

According to CODE Sports’ reporting, the development of a suitable arena is crucial in the Queensland city’s bid, with local funding a key element.

As it stands, there are proposed plans for a $1 billion, 12,000-seat Gold Coast Arena at Carey Park in Southport.

But CODE Sports reports the viability of this arena, slated for 2027, and the city’s NBL bid, which has attracted interest from NBA icons Carmelo Anthony and Kenny Smith, hinges on securing funding from the state government.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate reportedly approached the state government for this support, with NBL Group CEO Dave Stevenson highlighting the importance of their backing.

“We’re engaged in ongoing conversations with the council around what support for a team may look like, and we’ll progress those talks,” Stevenson said via CODE Sports.

“We’re excited about the opportunity on the Gold Coast, and we’re encouraged by the venue being committed to it because that is important.”

The other destination reportedly in the mix for NBL expansion is Canberra, whose plans for a purpose-built arena appears set to be finished by 2028.

Stevenson explained the ACT government has been “really supportive” and engaged in bringing an NBL team back to the Nation’s Capital, especially after their strong 2025 NBL Blitz.

“They [ACT government] are also engaging in the Federal government, and we’re really optimistic about Canberra having a team,” Stevenson said.

“We’ve already got the Capitals there, so the demand for basketball in the ACT is really strong.”

The Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season will tip off on Saturday, September 19, when Melbourne United hosts the Adelaide 36ers at John Cain Arena, from 7.30pm AEST.

Read the full story here >> Local Council funding the final hurdle for Gold Coast NBL entry