Magic Remain on Hold for Player and Coaching Contract Renewals
September 12, 2020 - National Basketball League of Canada (NBL Canada)
Moncton Magic News Release
(Moncton) - On June 23rd, Canada's longest standing professional basketball league announced its return to play in December 2020 after being forced to cancel the 2019-20 season at the mid-way point for concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that over two months have passed since that release, the clouds of uncertainty for the Magic have yet to clear surrounding the virus and timing for the regular season between the teams based in the 5 different Provinces.
"We remain excited and hopeful about returning to play in the 10th season of the NBLC and defending our Championship title" says Mike Storey, Vice President of Operations for the Magic. "It is unfortunate that this pandemic is still muddying up the water and prolonging decisions on when that can happen safely and concretely, so we that can move forward."
Although Canada is producing some great talent, like fan favorites Jason Calliste, Denzel Taylor, and Brad States, the majority of players still call the USA home and are imported into the NBLC each season. The League also has to contend with five separate Provincial Health Guidelines that differ in each venue concerning attendance and accessibility due to the virus.
"As a result of this lack of certainty, the Magic will continue to remain in a holding pattern regarding the signing of new or extended contracts for Players and the Coaching Staff for the 2020-21 season." said Storey. "We understand that people are eager for a season to take shape, but some of the issues around when and how it can be done the same for all teams is really being dictated by the virus and what path it takes going forward - we know the League's Board of Directors is working on it continuously." Storey adds.
The Magic lead the league with a stellar 19-4 record before the season was cut short and looked destined to repeat as NBLC Champions for the 2nd year in a row.
"Our fans can be assured that no matter how long it takes until the new season can begin, the Magic will be there ready to compete." Storey finishes.
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National Basketball League of Canada Stories from September 12, 2020
- Magic Remain on Hold for Player and Coaching Contract Renewals - Moncton Magic
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