'Crucial step': CEO Sager talks new owner, club deal

• ‍All WNBL clubs have reportedly agreed to join the new ownership consortium
• Several clubs were in "crisis talks" with minority owner Basketball Australia days before the takeover‍
• The future of the Adelaide Lightning is up in the air after previous owners, the Pelligra Group, handed back the license

The new CEO of the WNBL has spoken after the league avoided a major crisis when all teams finally agreed to join the new ownership, led by the Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate (WCGS) and the National Basketball League (NBL) consortium.

Sources told Basketball.com.au that all clubs, except for the Adelaide Lightning whose future is currently up in the air, will be part of the league under the new ownership, which is a major development after it was revealed several clubs held "crisis talks" with Basketball Australia before the takeover of the WNBL on April 2, Code Sports Basketball reported.

It is unclear what negotiations and concessions were made to get the deal done.

"The WNBL is strongest when united and I'm proud that our clubs are aligned in this shared vision," WNBL chief executive, Jennie Sager, told Basketball.com.au.

"We are committed to delivering a successful, eight-team competition for the 2025/26 season and excited to work with clubs and players as we enter this bold new chapter.

"New investment in areas such as resourcing, fan engagement, marketing, and broadcast, marks a crucial step in unlocking the full potential of women's basketball in Australia."

Ms Sager said basketball was "exploding" in Australia and the league was committed to developing athletes at all stages.

"Whether that’s improving the pathways for young athletes or growing the professionals on and off the court, so they are ready to transition to the next chapter," she said.

"Part of this is also making sure they are compensated for their talent, hard work, and dedication."

With Adelaide currently not confirmed to be part of the league next season, there has been speculation the WNBL could push for an early entry from Tasmania or a Brisbane team, after Basketball.com.au revealed the Bullets planned to enter a team by the 2026/27 season.

It is unclear when free agency for the coming season will start.

The Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate (WCGS) and the National Basketball League (NBL) consortium finalised the agreement to acquire a majority interest in the WNBL in November last year with Basketball Australia retaining a minority shareholding.

The 2025/26 WNBL season is expected to start in October, 2025.