Hobart and Hawaii - Madut Drawing on Parallel Experiences

Hobart and Hawaii are two locations that are rarely compared, but new JackJumpers signing Junior Madut will be drawing on similarities between the two communities when he links up with his new side.

After beginning his college career at Eastern Florida State in 2017, Madut transferred to the University of Hawaii in 2020 and played two seasons with the Rainbow Warriors before turning professional last season.

From his experiences playing against the JackJumpers as a member of the South East Melbourne Phoenix in NBL23, Madut believes there are parallels that can be drawn between the two communities.

“When I got out to Tassie I didn’t really know what to expect … it kind of reminds me a lot of Hawaii, which is where I went to college,” Madut said.

“Kind of that island life, I gravitated towards it, I was comfortable there, I had a lot of fun playing there and the fans were crazy.

“From my Hawaii days, just seeing how much the kids over there love the game of basketball, because it’s such a small island and we were the only team they had.

“I’m excited because I’ve heard a lot about the Tasmania community and how much they love basketball which, prior to signing, I didn’t really know.

“I’m excited to see what that’s like.”

Madut’s contact with Tasmania didn’t only start this past off-season though. In fact, the JackJumpers have been keeping tabs on the athletic wing for some time.

“There have been talks with Tasmania, or interest in general from when I was in college," Madut said.

“I think the conversation just sparked up a bit more this off-season. I spoke to Scott Roth and liked what he had to say, I spoke to the assistants, and I think they all have a big plan.

“They’re ready to work and have an exciting group of guys and an exciting community. For me, it’s easy to come in and join that, and join something that’s already good.”

Madut is the second signing the JackJumpers have made following the arrival of former Adelaide guard Anthony Drmic.

The pair will suit up for Tasmania for the first time in NBL24 on Friday, September 29 against the Perth Wildcats.