North West Thunder Surprised by Launceston Tornadoes Attack

The North West Thunder has come under fire from The Launceston Tornadoes in a push to create division in Tasmania's basketball landscape amid changes to the licence structure for the NBL1 clubs in the North and North West of the State. The Thunder organisation were confused by the onslaught and aggression shown in what has been a very transparent process to-date.  It comes two weeks after NBL1/Basketball Victoria set out their requirements for applications to be lodged from the clubs by July 18th, 2025. 

North West Thunder Chairman James Leslie said:
"After what was a very amicable meeting on Friday (27th June) with both Basketball Tasmania CEO Ben Smith and Launceston Tornadoes Chair Lauren Faulkner, we as a club were extremely taken aback by the attacks on social media and through the press over the weekend driven by the club and one of their high-profile players."

"The damage being caused to the sport is our main concern and how it creates a divide in our basketball community. We would have preferred if both clubs could have remained professional and respected the process put in place by the governing bodies."

"At no stage have we been disrespectful to the Tornadoes and this process of having to submit applications only comes after an NBL1 League mandate that in 2026 they require one club with both a men's and women's team under their umbrella as opposed to the current model. All men's and women's games must be played at the same venue which based on the current situation and our understanding renders both clubs not financially viable. There also needs to be considerations about playing in two different locations and the logistics that come with that, and a duty of care for travelling athletes. We've been clear on our thoughts and communicated the same to Basketball Tasmania and the NBL1 groups. Our focus is to move forward and present two teams in the best interests of our members and supporters."

"It's our approach as an entire organisation that we are here to make sure that basketball is placed in a position to have the best outcome both now and in the future. There is no malice from our side and the misinformation from the Tornadoes is disappointing however, shows their nervousness about the process and while we don't condone the behaviour, we understand it."

"Would we like to see a women's program here? Absolutely, we would love that for our supporters and members. And we would hope that the Launceston Tornadoes are as passionate about the potential for a men's program also."

"With basketball participation and engagement at an all-time high, we plan to ensure that all boys and girls in Tasmania are really clear on the pathway forward in our sport and have access to it wherever they reside."