How the NBL could revise its local classification

A simple tweak could open up avenues for local talent that would otherwise slip through the cracks.

Back in 2019, the South East Melbourne Phoenix signed a recently graduated Chima Moneke to a one year contract.

He initially settled in Australia at two years of age, then went on a globetrotting journey thanks to diplomatic parents. When he finally returned to Australia for good at 13, Moneke grew up as a teen and learned the game in Australia’s capital, representing Canberra across multiple Australian Junior Championships and competing alongside best friend Dante Exum for their school, Lake Ginninderra.

The Phoenix signing was set to be a return to family (Moneke’s siblings continue to live here as Australian citizens) and friends after a collegiate career in the US, but a lack of requisite paperwork would lead to Moneke ultimately failing to qualify as a local in the NBL, voiding his contract and requiring him to seek opportunities overseas.

Speaking at the time, head coach Simon Mitchell had this to say about the situation to the Canberra Times.

“We’re really disappointed, he is a lovely kid. We were really excited for him to come in. He’s lived his whole life in Australia, it’s a real shame with the way it’s panned out for him,” Mitchell said.

“To play in front of his family, his friends, and the country he calls home, it’s an unfortunate circumstance. We'd love to get him in uniform if we can at some stage, we’ll just have to wait this one out and see what the process is.”

Having taken a paycut to play in the NBL, and admitting to finding the chance to represent the Australian Boomers a tempting one, this fork in the road for Moneke’s career and professional allegiances might be one of the bigger what ifs in Australian basketball over the last decade.