Club Statement - Cairns Game Venue Change

The Hungry Jack’s NBL has announced the following changes to the Round 20 schedule due to the COVID situation developing in Melbourne.

Saturday’s scheduled game between the South East Melbourne Phoenix and Cairns Taipans that was to be played at John Cain Arena has been moved to Friday night and will now be played at the Cairns Pop-Up Arena at 7:30pm AEST. 

Monday’s scheduled game between Melbourne United and Cairns Taipans that was also to be played at John Cain Arena will now be played at the Cairns Pop-Up Arena at 7:30pm AEST. 

Details on how the Phoenix plans to compensate members for this missed game will be communicated as the remaining home and away schedule is confirmed.

“Our members have supported us through what has been a challenging year, and we can’t thank them enough,” Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said. “We’d also like to commend the NBL for acting as quickly as they have throughout this season, it’s been an entire league wide effort to keep the season rolling.”

Hungry Jack’s NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said: “We thank Melbourne United, South East Melbourne Phoenix and the Cairns Taipans for their understanding and flexibility in very trying circumstances. 

"Both Melbourne teams are likely to be competing in the Finals and temporarily relocating them gives them the best chance of being able to participate in the Finals uninterrupted.

“The health and safety of our players, coaches, referees, staff and fans remains our number one priority and, as always, our decisions will be guided by the advice of the relevant health authorities.”

Any Phoenix member that has purchased additional tickets or upgraded their membership through Ticketek will be contacted by Ticketek via email regarding a refund. Those fans who have purchased a ticket will also receive an email from Ticketek in regard to a refund.

(26/05/2021)