Indian Panthers Withdraw from New Zealand National Basketball League
From Indian players' delayed arrival due to visa issues, to allegations around non-payment of salaries, the withdrawal marks the final blow
The Indian Panthers have officially withdrawn from the 2025 Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) in New Zealand, citing their inability to meet the League’s operational and financial requirements.
The decision was confirmed via an official press release, following a meeting of the Sal’s NBL Commission on Monday evening, during which the Panthers’ withdrawal was accepted. The exit is contingent on the Panthers finalizing an agreement to honor outstanding financial obligations to creditors, including players and staff, along with compensation to the League. Effective immediately, the Indian Panthers will no longer compete in the ongoing season.
Panthers take full responsibility
The franchise, which was awarded a license in September 2024 with the ambitious goal of showcasing Indian basketball talent on an international stage, has acknowledged its shortfalls. The League had launched an investigation in late April into the franchise’s operations, and the Panthers have reportedly cooperated throughout the process. In a statement, the Panthers took full responsibility for their inability to deliver on the vision originally presented and extended an apology to fans, stakeholders, and league officials.
“When we embarked on the Panthers project, our shared vision was to provide Indian players with a platform to develop and showcase their talents on a respected and historically significant stage,” the Panthers' statement read. “However, fielding a team abroad for five months proved more complex than anticipated. While some obstacles were within our control, others were not.”
Looking ahead, the Panthers have expressed their intent to regroup and explore future participation under improved circumstances, reaffirming their commitment to Indian basketball development on international platforms.
Panthers’ Results Nullified
In the wake of the withdrawal, the NBL Commission has confirmed that the 2025 season will proceed with 11 teams. All game results involving the Indian Panthers—both in the Sal’s NBL and the Sky Broadband Rapid League—will be nullified to maintain competitive integrity. This includes the removal of nine already-played matches from the official standings.
Commission Chair Tracey Garland commented on the situation, saying, “While this is an unfortunate outcome to what was a very exciting vision to expand our basketball competition across New Zealand and the Asian region, the Panthers did not deliver what they had promised, for which they have taken responsibility.”
Garland reaffirmed the League's commitment to innovation and expansion, highlighting the successes and bold moves made by the NBL in recent years. She also revealed that the now-vacant 12th license has drawn interest from at least three prospective ownership groups, though no decisions will be made until a post-season review is complete.
The withdrawal is a setback for Indian representation in global basketball circuits but also a moment of reflection for future cross-border ventures. As the dust settles, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the Panthers—and its parent Indian National Basketball League (INBL) more broadly—bounce back from this chapter.
For continued updates on this story and other basketball news from India and beyond, stay tuned to Ekalavyas.
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