The front entrance of TD Station in Saint John. (Image: Brad Perry)
Professional basketball will return to Saint John for the first time in more than two years.
The newly-formed Eastern Canadian Basketball League (ECBL) named the Saint John Union and the Truro Tide in Nova Scotia as the first two franchises.
The league is hopeful play will start in March 2022.
“But, one thing we’ve been adamant about, we are not going to start our first season until the COVID-19 situation is more clear in terms of being able to get fans into the arenas,” said Tim Kendrick, president of the ECBL.
Kendrick said the league is planning to start the inaugural season with four teams but is confident there will be six.
“We’re very confident we’re going to have at least our four, but we think we’re going to have six, so we’re very please about that, and eventually we hope the league grows to as many as ten teams.”
Kendrick added the league is going to be community-centered.
“Things like school visits, boys and girls clubs, minor basketball initiatives, we’re going to do as much as we can to help the community in a lot of ways.”
Such a thrilling day for the @ecbl_ca! Our newest franchise has arrived, welcome to the @SaintJohnUnion! This league is about communities in the #Maritimes, and the wonderful & hard working people of the region! Who’s next?! #BuildTogether @Truro_Tide
— Coach Tim Kendrick (@Coach_Kendrick) October 13, 2021
Follow
