JackJumpers defence a work in progress

“You’ve got to embrace the struggle”.

Head Coach Scott Roth is resolute in his approach following two losses in the JackJumpers’ first two games of the 22/23 NBL season.

“Our defence is not where it was last year for whatever reason. In both games, in the South East game it was 29 times and 32 times tonight they went to the foul line, so that’s a recipe for disaster.

“It’s undisciplined defence across the board and it’s going to have to be a work in progress”.

After a hot start from the home side in front of a packed MyState Bank Arena, Cairns scored a staggering 39 points in the 3^rd quarter to silence the crowd and build an unassailable lead.

“I’m happy the building was filled and the fans are back out and about” Roth said.

“We were just a little disjointed, the communication wasn’t on the same page. We talk about 5 guys being on a string and right now it just feels like we’re guarding 1 on 1. We need to have each other’s back and I know we’ll get there” Guard Matt Kenyon said.

“It’s a marathon, not a sprint”.

New imports Milton Doyle and Rashard Kelly have impressed in their first two outings in JackJumpers colours.

“Obviously they’re both new to the league so they have to grow into learning the league, learning the teams, learning the referees. But I’ve enjoyed being around them, they’ve been good”.

The JackJumpers now head to New Zealand for the Breakers’ first home game in almost two years.

New Zealand Breakers v Tasmania JackJumpers, Spark Arena. 5.30pm AEDT Friday 7^th October.

Watch live on ESPN via Kayo & Foxtel.