Wildcats head to Sydney

The Perth Wildcats have flown out to Sydney and will be based interstate until the conclusion of the Melbourne hub-based NBL Cup in mid-March, the league confirmed on Monday.

WA's state goverment's decision to put the state in lockdown on Sunday forced the Wildcats hand, initially scheduled to head to Melbourne before a late backflip saw the team board a plane for Sydney.

Trevor Gleeson's side is set to play Melbourne United on Sunday in Bendigo, as part of round four of the season.

“Like we have had to do with other teams, the Wildcats will temporarily relocate so they can continue to train and play. This follows the announcement of a five day lockdown in Western Australia," NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said.

“We thank all of the Perth players, coaches and staff for their support in what is obviously a challenging time for everyone. All of our clubs have shown tremendous professionalism and a determination to make this season happen despite the ongoing challenges and we will continue to do everything we can to support them.”

As a consequence, this Friday’s round four game between Perth and New Zealand at RAC Arena has been postponed.

This Thursday night’s scheduled game between the Brisbane Bullets and Melbourne United at Nissan Arena will now be played on Friday at 7.30pm AEDT.

The Cairns Taipans will now play New Zealand at the Cairns Pop-Up Arena at 5.30pm AEDT this Saturday.

IMAGE: The West Australian.