The National Basketball League will likely be without two of its regular champions if a one-venue competition gets off the ground

The idea of an accelerated five week tournament in one city is back on the table with alert-level two seemingly just around the corner.

The Wellington Saints wanted no part of the concept when it was first mooted, while the Southland Sharks are also cold on the idea.

League GM Justin Nelson says those teams will be welcomed back next year, but insists the alternate concept he's pushing has legs.