New Finals Shake Up
2 Aug
1
min read


The Hungry Jack’s NBL Finals series is set for a dramatic climax with a new play-in format confirmed.
The top six teams will now have a chance at championship glory with the top two automatically qualifying for the semi-finals and teams ranked three to six to compete in the play-in.
The pathway through the play-in series is detailed in the below image.
![Play In Tournament Bracket 16x9[81]](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/689dc6a057eeae68771d1ede/6940b40edded3958165d1367_play-in-tournament-bracket_16x9-81-8.jpeg)
Hungry Jack’s NBL Commissioner, Jeremy Loeliger, says the new system adds excitement and intrigue for fans.
“The end of the season will have a new level of importance and intensity, not to mention three new postseason blockbusters,” Loeliger said.
“Most importantly, more teams will remain in the championship hunt for longer, meaning more fans will continue to be engaged during what will be a more exhilarating finish to the season.
“The magnitude of these play-in games will be enormous with the fate of some clubs to be determined by do-or-die contests that promise to deliver a thrilling atmosphere.
“The NBA has had great success with its play-in tournament. We studied that model and are confident ours will see similar success.”
The Hungry Jack’s NBL season tips-off on Saturday, October 1, when the South East Melbourne Phoenix face the Tasmania JackJumpers and the Illawarra Hawks battle the Sydney Kings.
Every game of the season will be broadcast live on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel, while the Sunday games will be simulcast on 10 Peach and 10 Play.
via NBL.com.au

5 Aug
Phoenix sign Hunter Maldonado for NBL26 season

3 Aug
Phoenix, AND Property extend partnership for NBL26

29 Jul
Injury Update: Angus Glover

28 Jul
Off-Season Player Wrap: Aliir advances to preliminary final in NBL1 South

24 Jul
Phoenix to play two pre-season games at State Basketball Centre

24 Jul
The Phoenix head to Perth for International Series

21 Jul
Xmas in July is back! Sign up to a Phoenix Membership and win BIG!

17 Jul
Phoenix finalise coaching panel for NBL26

14 Jul
Off-Season Player Wrap: DJ dominates up North

11 Jul
'Happy Mountain' Vrenz ready to pick and roll

9 Jul
Vrenz Bleijenbergh joins Phoenix for NBL26, Omari Moore released

7 Jul
The Moments That Made Us! - Vote for your favourite now!

7 Jul
Off-Season Player Wrap: Glover and Mitchell shoot the lights out in NBL1

3 Jul
Key Phoenix duo set for national honours

30 Jun
Off-Season Player Wrap: Glover leads NBL Select Team in Japan

26 Jun
Phoenix head to Canberra for NBL Blitz
Support your team with the latest gear
Grab your latest team releases before they're gone.

Get the latest Team Updates
Breaking news & special offers. Direct to your inbox.
