Snappy name revealed for Darwin's national men's and women's basketball teams

Darwin's inaugural men's and women's NBL1 teams will be named after the Territory's most fierce and famous animal - the saltwater crocodile.

The Darwin Salties will begin life in Australia's first national basketball competition in 2022 as part of NBL1 North.

The Darwin Salties' name and logo was selected in recognition of the top end's strong connection to saltwater crocodiles and because it's the major totem of the Larrakia traditional owners (the Larrakia word for crocodile is: Dungalaba).

There has previously been a 'crocodiles' team in the NBL - and in other sports - but the use of the name 'Salties' gives a fresh, fun point of difference.

The Darwin Salties will make NT basketball and sporting history by fielding senior men’s and women’s teams in a national sporting league.

Darwin Basketball Association Executive Officer and General Manager, Kerri Savidge said: "We wanted a strong name and logo that was interesting and had a local look and feel, and the Darwin Salties delivers on that.

"It was important to us that the Darwin Salties appeals to adults and children and we think the NT basketball community will love these teams."

Basketball NT said: "Launching our name and logo is important as it shows both the NBL1 and Territorians that we are serious and quickly building up to an exciting first season.

"Who wouldn't want to get behind the Darwin Salties!

"This launch will help us secure players, staff and sponsors and build momentum ahead of the 2022 season."