The Indian Panthers’ debut season could be over by the end of the week.
The National Basketball League commission is expected to make a statement about the future of the beleaguered club today.
The game between the Panthers and the Canterbury Rams in Auckland on Tuesday night was postponed.
In a press release, the league said it was forced to postpone the game because the Panthers players refused to play.
"The league was made aware of delayed payments to Indian Panthers players and staff," the league stated.
"A formal meeting was immediately requested with franchise ownership, which took place on Monday.
"On [Tuesday morning] the league was informed that a number of Panthers players had received payment, and plans were in place for the game against the Rams to proceed.
"However, prior to tip-off, Panthers players elected not to take the court, and the league made the decision to postpone the game."
Reading between the lines you wonder if the payment was actually processed.
Former star player Alex Robinson jun, who transferred to the Nelson Giants last month, posted on social media that he was promised payment during his two months at the Panthers and was never paid.
"Dear @indianpanthersofficial. I was part of your organisation for two months, during which I gave my full commitment, effort and passion to every game," he wrote on his Instagram account.
"Unfortunately, I was repeatedly promised payment that was never fulfilled.
"This situation not only impacts me personally but also affects my son and my family.
"I sincerely hope you find it within your hearts to honour your commitments and compensate all of us who gave our blood, sweat and tears to represent and support this organisation."
The Panthers are owned by a development professional league in India.
