The Dragons issued a statement to media today saying the team would not be putting in a submission to be part of the 2009/10 season but still envisages being part of a revamped league later in 2010.

Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock said the Board were disappointed at the Dragons’ decision but that it would not change BA’s immediate plans.

"We were informed today by the South Dragons that they intended not to play in season 2009/10, which needless to say is very disappointing coming at this very late juncture," said Sengstock.  "Irrespective of the Dragons' decision, the process we are following remains unchanged.  We will assess the submissions of the final license documentation for the 2009/10 season due from the clubs by close of business on Monday and will then be in a position to outline the league’s direction later next week."

"We are however buoyed by the fact we have already received verbal support for the 2009/10 season from the vast majority of other existing clubs, but will necessarily need to assess the actual submissions on Monday before announcing our plans in any sort of detail.  We will continue our practice of consulting with the Clubs through this process.

"The Board remain committed as ever to our goal of ensuring that we put in place a financially viable league model that is truly national, with full representation from all Australian state capitals, as well as strong links to the greater basketball community.  That vision remains unchanged and is what we continue to work towards."