National Basketball League expansion into Brisbane has been called off for the upcoming season after league chiefs reached an impasse over a stadium deal.
NBL chairman Graeme Wade announced on Wednesday a proposed new team for the Queensland capital had fallen over due to a lack of suitable venue.
While the Brisbane Convention Centre at Southbank was seen as a preferred arena, it's understood negotiations broke down over availability and expense.
Wade said there was no question about the passion for a team in Brisbane, but a secure long-term tenure needed to be found first.
"It is clear there is a groundswell of support for the return of a Brisbane team and basketball in Queensland has shown time and time again how popular the sport is in the state," Wade said.
"It is unfortunate that there is not a venue of the appropriate standard to accommodate an NBL team.
"The league is not prepared to put at risk the long-term viability of a Club by using unsuitable venues."
The Brisbane Bullets left the competition in 2008 due to financial difficulties, just one year after winning their third NBL title.
The NBL has also extended the delay to the start of the pre-season free agency period as they look to confirm the participation of the Townsville Crocodiles and Wollongong Hawks.
The franchises entered voluntary administration in March but now look to be likely starters in next season's competition.
"Townsville and Wollongong have received fantastic support from their local communities, fans and sponsors," Wade said.
"With the assistance of the NBL, both Clubs are on the cusp of a definitive announcement about their participation next season."
Free agency was delayed to ensure talent from the two faltering clubs was not poached by other teams before the new season.
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