Auckland, Dec 23 NZPA - Southland will be represented in next year's National Basketball League after securing financial backing from the local community.

The Invercargill Licensing Trust and ILT Foundation provided $155,000, enabling the Southland Sharks to join the league.

Licensing Trust president Alan Dennis said the support emphasised how Southland sport could compete with its bigger rivals on the national scene.

"I commend basketball on its efforts on getting this team over the line," he said.

Southland Basketball Association (SBA) president Jill Bolger said the tight timelines for entry meant the franchise had relied heavily on community supporters and decisions had finally been made.

"We're finally ready to go, we're so grateful" she said.

Current Southland coach Richard Dickel will coach the team.

Bolger said the race was now on to secure other sponsors to meet budgetary requirements.

"There is still a lot of work to do. We desperately need more sponsors to come on board to ensure we meet our commitments," she said.

The playing roster was taking shape with announcements due in the New Year. The 10-team league runs from March to June.