Kickert satisfied with NBL's upward curve

Sep 21, 2017 - 5:34 PM Brisbane are preparing to take the court for a pre-season game in Logan, a world away from the atmosphere that awaits in Arizona against the NBA's Phoenix Suns next month.

But that distinction is symbolic, Bullets veteran Daniel Kickert says, of how the NBL is now perceived.

Frustrated by Australia's national basketball league being the butt of jokes in recent years, the long-time Boomer and European journeyman says it is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Support for grassroots basketball, in pockets like Logan just outside of Brisbane, has always been strong in Australia.

But the NBL brand is now spreading to the States, with the NBA preparing to host the Bullets, Melbourne and Sydney in friendlies against Phoenix, Oklahoma and Utah respectively.

Kickert credited NBL owner Larry Kestelman for instigating the competition's renaissance since taking it over in 2015.

"It's good to be part of something that's growing, not considered a joke," the 34-year-old said.

"People like putting something down and a few years ago that was basketball.

"The quality of the league has never been an issue, but the league had no respect.

"Now with some proper management it's getting recognised by the public and sponsors."

The Bullets will play Illawarra on Friday night, happy with their progress ahead of their NBL opener against Perth on October 7.

While the NBL is on the improve, Kickert knows for it to thrive the Bullets must be better than their last-placed finish in their return to the league last season.

"Getting basketball up here like it used to be back in the day is pretty important," he said.

"You want your big markets making an impact."

Last season Kickert became the first NBL player to shoot at least 50 per cent from the field, 40 per cent from three-point range and 90 per cent from the free-throw line - a feat achieved by only seven players in the NBA.

Despite his peerless efficiency, the Bullets dropped off the pack and out of finals contention when injuries took their toll.

Expect the Bullets to be better second time around though, Kickert says.

"But we're in a lot better position than we were this time last year," he said.

"We have eight guys returning and two imports who are familiar with the league and system; that continuity is huge."

The NBL on Thursday night announced SBS will televise two games live every round this season, while Fox Sports will show every game live.

The three games against NBA teams will be broadcast in Australia on ESPN and via the NBA League Pass.

Source: AAP