The New Zealand Breakers have decided not to wear Pride rainbow symbols in the upcoming NBL season. This decision has sparked controversy among LGBTQ fans, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment.
What happened?
The NBL holds a Pride Round annually to celebrate diversity among LGBTQ basketball fans worldwide. However, the Breakers have chosen to forgo wearing any Pride symbols, citing religious and cultural concerns. A team source stated that the players discussed the matter and some raised concerns about wearing the insignia.
Why it matters for New Zealand Breakers
The Breakers' decision is particularly disappointing given that they will be playing against the Adelaide 36ers, who have the only openly gay player in the NBL, Isaac Humphries. Humphries came out in 2022 and has been an advocate for LGBTQ rights in sports. The Breakers' lack of support for the LGBTQ community has been met with criticism from fans, with some stating that they will no longer support the team.
What comes next?
The NBL's Pride Round is scheduled to take place from January 21 to February 1, 2026. The Breakers will face the Adelaide 36ers during this period, which could have been their Pride Night. Instead, the team's decision has sparked a heated debate about inclusivity and diversity in sports.
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| 2025-01-26 | Adelaide 94-78 New Zealand Breakers |
The Breakers' recent form has been inconsistent, with a record of 1W-0D-2L in their last three games. They are currently ninth in the NBL standings. Their lack of support for the LGBTQ community has not gone unnoticed, and it remains to be seen how this will affect their performance on the court. And as the season progresses, the Breakers will face increasing pressure to address their stance on inclusivity and diversity. But for now, the team's decision has left a sour taste in the mouths of many fans. So, the Breakers will have to work hard to regain the trust of their fans and prove that they are committed to creating a welcoming environment for all players and fans. The team's head coach will have to navigate this challenging situation and find a way to move forward. Last result: Adelaide 94-78 New Zealand Breakers (2025-01-26). Recent form (last 3): 1W-0D-2L (LLW, most recent first); lost the last 2.