A cloud of disappointment hangs over tonight's season-opener in basketball's New Zealand NBL between the Hawkes Bay Hawk's and newcomers the Indian Panthers.
The South-Auckland based Panthers are without eight players who either remain overseas for a national team training camp - or are facing visa issues.
To fill the gaps - the side's pulling in an unknown cast of Kiwis on short notice.
LISTEN ABOVE

Full Show: Sportstalk with Jason Pine - March 23, 2026
43:03

Piney's Power Rankings: Hurricanes lead Super Rugby table and Warriors flying in NRL
05:52

Don Mackinnon: head of NZ20 steering committee on NZ20 winning out as preferred option for NZ domestic T20 competition
13:08