BBL PONDER SEPTEMBER FINALE

BBL teams have discussed proposals to end the current season in September – before starting the next one a month later.

All eleven clubs attended a conference call on Wednesday to mull three different options which include staging a money-spinning playoff final in the autumn.

With the showpiece at London’s 02 Arena thought to generate almost 30 per cent of the BBL’s income, the blueprint is designed to alleviate the financial concerns enflamed by the coronavirus lockdown.

But it is one of three options on the agenda which also include an immediate end to the 2019-20 season without any restart or holding solely playoffs in September with the option of squeezing the whole competition into a single weekend.

“Realistically the plan now is to look at some form of conclusion, whether that be a tournament play-off, or a round-up of games at the beginning of next season,” Sheffield Sharks general manager Sarah Backovic told the Yorkshire Post.

“Nothing is concluded, there’s all sorts of contributions from around the league, but that is my personal view.

“I just don’t see us being able to complete the season in the same way as it was finished, with the same teams.

“Whatever we do, finishing this current season will happen ahead of the start of next season. That’s the general consensus of opinion, and I think its shared by other clubs.”

With a number of teams now in a tough financial spot, the idea of reducing the salary cap next season has also been floated in recent weeks with all but one club understood to have voiced support.

While there have been calls to create additional fixtures, including two playoff finals, next term to boost the coffers – an idea which would only realistically prove beneficial if the BBL is not forced to restart behind closed doors until social distancing guidance is revised.

“Although there is currently much uncertainty, the BBL’s member Clubs are discussing some specific potential options to allow an effective and safe return to action,” said BBL chief operating officer Andy Webb.

“They are likely to come to a view over the next number of weeks, as clarity comes from Government on what will be allowable, and when, and on what terms.”