JackJumpers pair sign with North West Thunder for NBL1

Two of Tasmania JackJumpers’ emerging stars will remain in the State for the NBL off-season after signing with the North West Thunder in NBL1.

Development players Sejr Deans and Sean Macdonald have committed to the North West Tasmanian side for the 2022 NBL1 South season.

Tasmania JackJumpers CEO Simon Brookhouse said “it’s great to already have some of our players committing to staying in Tasmania during the NBL off-season”.

“It means they can continue to be out and about in the community, in schools and basketball clubs around the state representing both the JackJumpers and Thunder while playing in a strong team and league”.

Macdonald averaged 19 points and four assists per game in the 2021 NBL1 season with Dandenong Rangers. 

North West Thunder Chairman James Leslie said he was thrilled to sign the 21 year old.

“He’s a really talented, professional young guy and we’re thrilled to secure his signature for this upcoming season”.

“I think we can continue to nurture his development and build on the incredible potential he’s already proved with the JackJumpers” Leslie said.

The 2022 season will be 18-year-old Deans’ second year with the Thunder. The Tasmanian will play as many NBL1 games as possible before he heads to the United States to play NCAA college basketball with Jacksonville University in Florida.

“Having the JackJumpers in the NBL is fantastic for the NBL1 sides in the state and the junior development pathways.

“We look forward to working closely with the JackJumpers. This is mutually-beneficial for both teams to get these guys really embedded into the Tasmanian community and ensure they love playing and living in Tasmania for as long as possible” Leslie said.

Brookhouse said “we’re working closely with our other players and both Tasmanian NBL1 teams, and hopefully we’ll have more exciting announcements about their off-season plans in the near future”.