Basketball Australia clears NBL owner Larry Kestelman of major complaints

Basketball Australia has released findings from a seven-month investigation into the governance of the National Basketball League (NBL). The probe was prompted by complaints from Crest Sports and Entertainment, owner of the Illawarra Hawks, regarding the league's management and financing.

While Basketball Australia dismissed the complaints from Crest Sports as not being “credible,” the report acknowledged that NBL owner Larry Kestelman made “mistakes” during his tenure. Kestelman has been credited with revitalizing the league from a state of financial collapse to a period of unprecedented growth, including record attendance and viewership.

As part of the resolution, Kestelman has been given one year to implement changes and rebuild trust. The NBL has expressed support for the findings, noting that the league and its clubs are currently prospering. Meanwhile, legal tensions persist, as Crest Sports, led by Jared Novelly, has pursued legal action against Kestelman and the league.