The New Zealand Basketball League could be faced with a massive global audience, when it tips off on Tuesday.
General manager Justin Nelson says the revamped domestic league is nearing a broadcast deal with a major off-shore network to televise its games.
"The league is very close to unveiling a big international broadcast deal of significance," Nelson tells Newshub.
"No doubt the league has generated significant international interest."
Nelson hopes to have confirmation of the deal overnight for an announcement on Tuesday, prior to the league's opening double-header.
The timing of Nelson's negotiations suggest that a North American-based network - such as ESPN - may be involved.
Dubbed the 'Showdown', the competition will be available to viewers worldwide via its new online streaming platform, the revenue from which will split among the league, teams, and players.
But a deal with an established, overseas broadcaster would clearly lift the league's exposure, as it looks to take advantage of basketball-starved fans across the globe.
Rams guard Taylor Britt welcomes the news and is eager to use it as a means to showcase the improvements in his own game.
"There are going to be a lot of eyes on this league and hopefully we can put on a show for everyone," Britt says.
Seven teams will contest the revised league, with the notable absence of defending NBL champions the Wellington Saints, the Southland Sharks, and the Hawke's Bay Hawks.
The competition tips off at West Auckland's Trusts Stadium with a double-header involving the Nelson Giants up against the Taranaki Mountainairs, followed by the Canterbury Rams against the Auckland Huskies.
