JackJumpers’ Strong Start Overturned as Phoenix Edge Out Win in Launceston

The Tasmania JackJumpers started strong in their Friday night showdown at the Silverdome, pushing out to a seven-point halftime lead over the South East Melbourne Phoenix. Despite their early advantage, the JackJumpers couldn’t hold off a Phoenix surge in the second half, falling 79-77 in a tight finish.

Early on, the JackJumpers made it tough for Phoenix, forcing nine turnovers in the first quarter alone, which led to a 17-2 run. The JackJumpers build a 42-35 lead at the break. Even with star centre Will Magnay picking up two quick fouls and sitting out most of the first half, Tasmania’s defense held firm, capitalizing on Phoenix's mistakes and maintaining their lead.

Magnay came out strong in the second half, contributing 19 points, five rebounds, and three assists, underscoring his consistency all season. "Magnay’s probably been our most consistent player, and we’re using him more to help us score," Head Coach Scott Roth reflected, impressed by the centre's impact on both ends of the floor.

However, the Phoenix found their rhythm in the fourth quarter. Matt Hurt’s 24 points on 9/14 shooting became the centerpiece of their comeback. Phoenix’s Nathan Sobey sealed the game with a driving layup in the final minute, finishing with a near triple-double of 14 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.

Ultimately, Tasmania shot just 36% from the field, struggling particularly from deep with 6/27 three-point attempts. Crawford and Milton Doyle had a rough shooting night, combining for just 4/28 from the field and 1/14 from three. "When we have a shooting night like that, it’s extremely hard to overcome," Roth admitted. "But the team kept it close, and that’s a positive."

Now sitting at 3-6, the JackJumpers look ahead to a quick turnaround as they head to Sydney to face the Kings, hoping to convert Friday’s energy into a full four-quarter performance.

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2024/25

TASMANIA JACKJUMPERS 77 (Magnay 19, Steindl 13, Deng 8, Te Rangi 8, Krslovic 8)

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX 79 (Hurt 24, Sobey 14, Wieskamp 12)

BOX SCORE