Round 11 - Game Preview Tasmania JackJumpers vs Cairns Taipans (NBL 25)

Round 11 – Cairns Taipans

Thursday 5 December, 7.30pm AEDT tip-off

MyState Bank Arena

LIVE ON ESPN

State of Play

The JackJumpers return to MyState Bank Arena this Thursday to take on the Cairns Taipans, energized to defend their home court.

Tasmania enters confident after a hard-fought win over Adelaide, anchored by their defense and clutch performances. Milton Doyle’s (15.3 ppg) ability to control the pace will be critical, alongside Will Magnay’s (1.64 blks) dominance in the paint. Sean Macdonald and Anthony Drmic have also stepped up recently, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility with key scoring contributions.

Cairns, despite recent struggles, remains a threat with Rob Edwards (19.58 ppg), Sam Waardenburg (15 ppg), and captain Taran Armstrong, leading their charge. The Taipans will look to disrupt Tasmania’s momentum and test their resilience.

It’s the NBL Heritage Round, and the team will suit up in their retro uniform, adding extra significance to the game. With a winning streak on the line, a strong performance will be key in a highly anticipated matchup.

Last Time They Met

Friday 4 October – Cairns Convention Centre

The JackJumpers fell short 90-78 in their last encounter with the Taipans. Cairns dominated early, building a 24-point halftime lead with 58.3% shooting. Taran Armstrong led the charge with 20 points and clutch plays.

Milton Doyle sparked a comeback, finishing with 19 points and three triples during a 19-5 third-quarter run. Will Magnay added 14 points and anchored the defense, while Majok Deng posted 13 points and 9 rebounds.

The JackJumpers’ defense tightened in the second half, forcing turnovers and limiting Cairns’ perimeter looks. Anthony Drmic (12 points) and Jordon Crawford (4 assists) applied backcourt pressure.

Shooting efficiency proved costly for Tasmania, hitting just 38.7% from the field and making only eight free throws compared to Cairns’ 18. Despite the fightback, Cairns' early cushion held firm.

SRT Logistics Coaches’ Take

Jack Fleming Assistant Coach "We’re excited about this matchup against Cairns. We’ve had a strong week of practice. Jordan Crawford has had two solid sessions, and we’re just waiting on his medical clearance this afternoon, but we’re optimistic about having a full roster. It’s great to have Sean Macdonald back after a few good weeks. Cairns is an exciting team, and we need to be on point, especially against Taran Armstrong and Rob Edwards."

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2024/25

CAIRNS TAIPANS 90 (Armstrong 20, Edwards 16, Galloway 14)

TASMANIA JACKJUMPERS 78 (Doyle 19, Magnay 14, Deng 13)

Ins & Outs

• Tasmania JackJumpers: Jordon Crawford (concussion)
• Cairns Taipans: Pedro Bradshaw (Ankle), Kyrin Galloway expected to return for round 11 from an ankle injury.