Canada's longest-running professional basketball league is planning to return to the hardwood this holiday season.
The National Basketball League of Canada (NBLC), of which the Windsor Express and London Lightning are members, vowed to return to play in late December, celebrating its 10th year of existence.
League play was paused in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with all other professional sports leagues in North America. It was decided later to cancel the rest of the season.
NBLC Commissioner Audley Stephenson said Tuesday that players, coaches and support staff are aching to return to the court.
"The National Basketball League of Canada is excited to return for its tenth season and proud to contribute to the re-build of our communities through the game of basketball," said Stephenson. "We will continue to follow the direction of government and public health agencies to ensure the safety of our fans, players, teams and league personnel associated with our game."
Both the Express and Lightning compete in the NBLC Central Division. At the time play was stopped this season, London led the division with a 15-8 record. Windsor was in third at 11-11.
The NBLC will release additional details on the league's post-pandemic reboot at a later date.