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Basketball Australia and the National Basketball Competition - representing National Basketball League Clubs - have signed a Heads of Agreement formally agreeing to a de-merger ahead of the 2013/14 season.

The Heads of Agreement commits Basketball Australia and the National Basketball Competition to a de-merger completion date of 1st July 2013.

The National Basketball Competition will assume effective commercial and operational control of the NBL, while also entering into an Affiliation Agreement with Basketball Australia to ensure compliance under world basketball governing body-FIBA rules and associated agreements.

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Kristina Keneally said BA would continue to work with the NBC where appropriate to ensure the League remained strong into the 2013/14 season and beyond, stating "as we've said throughout this process, a national men's competition is crucial to the future of basketball in Australia.

"Basketball Australia has worked cooperatively with NBL Clubs to explore the practical implications of a de-merger, and we're pleased to have agreed on an appropriate path forward.

"Basketball Australia remains supportive of the NBL; we want the League to be successful and sustainable in its own right. We look forward to seeing the NBC recapitalise the League to give it the best chance at financial viability."

Earlier this year, Basketball Australia flagged 'Returning the League' transferring the management and governance of the NBL to Clubs as one of four possible outcomes of the NBL White Paper.

As part of the NBL White Paper consultation process, NBL Clubs identified 'Returning the League' as their desired option, and Basketball Australia this month agreed to work with Clubs to determine the best path forward in pursuing a possible de-merger.

The National Basketball League will continue to be sanctioned by Basketball Australia, as is a requirement under FIBA rules.

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