Game Preview - Tasmania JackJumpers v Melbourne United

Round 2 – Tasmania JackJumpers V Melbourne United

Saturday 28 September, 8.00pm tip-off AEST

MyState Bank Arena

Concourse opens 6.00pm

Doors: External 7.00pm / Internal 7.30pm  

Watch LIVE on ESPN via Kayo 

State of Play 

This Saturday’s highly anticipated Round 2 clash at MyState Bank Arena will mark the first edition of the ‘Bass Strait Battle’, powered by Marinus Link, and the Tasmania JackJumpers’ first home game since last season’s Championship Series. It's set to be an exciting night for the ant army, highlighted by the unveiling of the 2024/25 championship banner, a significant moment in the club’s history.

“We all know there was no love lost in last year’s Grand Final series, which is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling in NBL history. This season’s matchups promise to be just as intense,” said CEO Christine Finnegan.

“We’re thrilled to bring this concept to life with the help of Marinus Link, continuing to deliver exciting battles against one of the NBL’s best teams.”

The JackJumpers will kick off the Bass Strait Battle this weekend, with the next matchups set for December 23 at John Cain Arena and February 1 later in the season.

Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 7:40 pm to catch the extended pre-game show, which will build energy ahead of the official banner unveiling ceremony. The night will be a celebration of last season’s success, as the team gears up for new challenges.

After a demanding pre-season, including the NBL Blitz on the Gold Coast and the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Singapore, the JackJumpers are eager to reconnect with their home crowd. While the season opener against Melbourne United didn’t go as hoped, the team is ready for a rematch on home court, buoyed by the passion of Tasmanian fans.

With a packed arena and plenty of pre-game excitement, it’s shaping up to be a night to remember. 

Last time they met  

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2024/25 ROUND 1

MELBOURNE UNITED 88 (Dellavedova 21, White 14, Ili 14)

TASMANIA JACKJUMPERS 79 (Doyle 23, Magnay 14, Drmic 14)

The Tasmania JackJumpers put up a strong fight in their season opener against Melbourne United at HoopsFest in Perth. Despite a challenging pre-season, which included the NBL Blitz and FIBA’s Intercontinental Cup, the JackJumpers showcased their resilience and talent throughout the game.

Milton Doyle led the way for Tasmania with 23 points, while Anthony Drmic added 14 points in the first half and Will Magnay contributed 14 points and six rebounds. The team played with grit, staying competitive in the first half, trailing by only two points at halftime.

Though Melbourne was able to pull away in the third quarter, Tasmania continued to push, with Clint Steindl hitting crucial shots early in the final quarter to cut the deficit to just eight points. Despite Melbourne's late surge, Tasmania's effort and determination were clear.

Coach Scott Roth expressed pride in the team’s performance, highlighting the challenges they overcame heading into the season opener, and noted the team’s eagerness to regroup and return home to play in front of their fans.

While it wasn’t the result they hoped for, the JackJumpers will be looking forward to building momentum as the season progresses, with a home crowd eagerly awaiting their return.

SRT Logistics Coaches’ take

Mark Radford said, “You learn very quickly playing against Melbourne United what you need to improve on. They bring a level of toughness and physicality that sets the benchmark in the league, and we’ve spoken many times about how matching their intensity puts you in good shape for the rest of the week. We’ve got some work to do in that area, and both the players and coaches have identified it—it was on full display in Perth.

“We’ve got the best fans in the league, and this is obviously the loudest venue. You run a little faster, jump a little higher, and feel the energy when you’re back home, especially after sleeping in your own bed. It’s a special night, and we’re aiming to bring our best performance on opening night.”

Ins & outs 

Tasmania JackJumpers: Sean Macdonald (ankle) and Craig Sword missed last week's game Round 1 against United due to concussion, however, he is progressing well through the protocols and all signs are positive for a return.

Melbourne United: N/A