In an expected move, the Isle of Man Basketball Association has extended the suspension of the local league season for the foreseeable future.

A review is now set to take place at the end of April regarding the outcome of the 2019-20 season.

Extending the suspension, association chairperson Trudi Crellin said: ’I am sure you are all keeping aware of the current situation and we, along with the whole of the Isle of Man, want to do our bit to keep everyone safe.

’It is our hope that we will be able to finish the league later in the season, with a further review to take place towards the end of April. Until that time, please all stay safe and look after yourself and your families.’

Despite being amongst the first sports to announce a suspension of activities because of the health emergency, there has been reluctance from the association to follow other sports in cancelling the current season outright.

Basketball on-island operates a double round robin system, deciding placements for an intense knockout play-off competition that caps the season and allows any team to snatch the title right up to the final games.

At the time of the suspension, the league was only a few short weeks away from the knockout element and, given the tight competition this season, there is a desire to conclude the play-offs at least and crown a champion if possible.

It had been a compelling campaign so far, Edgewater Turkeys narrowly managing to maintain an unbeaten record, newcomers Douglas Basketball Club arriving with some shock results and PwC Hoops posting encouraging performances.

With such an interesting season in a state of flux, there is a hope that the finals could play out later in the summer, although the association continues to put health considerations at the forefront of decision making.

Ultimately, as it should be, the welfare of the players, coaches, officials and wider community will be the deciding factor in whether the remainder of this season plays out.

MARTIN DUNNE