The New Zealand Basketball League is standing by its decision to rule Wellington Saints player Joshua Duinker a restricted player.
Wellington Saints' players Leon Henry (l) and BJ Anthony (r) with tape over their NBL logos. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Saints players taped over the NBL logo on their tops on Monday night during their clash with the Canterbury Rams in protest of the ruling which means Duinker can't play for The Tall Blacks.
Duinker who was born and raised in Australia holds a New Zealand passport so under
International Basketball Federation rules is eligible to play for New Zealand.
He was contracted by the Wellington Saints at the beginning of the 2017 season but in March the New Zealand NBL board was made aware Duinker has played for The Netherlands in 2013.
Last week the NBL said after seeking legal advice it ruled because Duinker had represented the Netherlands National Team he therefore is classified as an import.
In a statement today the NBL said it understands the Wellington Saints are upset with the ruling.
'It is within the New Zealand NBL Board's power to carry out some sort of disciplinary procedure such as a fine after the team taped over their shirts.
"For now we accept their protest for what it is a protest," The NBL said.
The NBL said a fair and robust process was followed to determine Duinker's eligibility which it is standing by.
-RNZ
