Tasmanian JackJumpers Finding Form in NBL25

Josh Higgins

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Last updated: 11 Dec 2024

Josh Higgins 11 Dec 2024

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JackJumpers beginning to find their groove in NBL25
Scott Roth a basketball mastermind
Will the JackJumpers go back-to-back?

Scott Roth the man behind the JackJumpers rise.(Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)

A few weeks ago, the Tasmanian JackJumpers were languishing near the bottom of the NBL25 ladder. Fast forward to now, and they’ve turned their fortunes around with a four-game winning streak, climbing to sixth place and reigniting their championship hopes. The defending champions are beginning to look like themselves again, ready to make a run as the season heads into its critical phase.

Since their NBL debut, the JackJumpers have been one of the league’s most consistent and competitive teams. However, this season began with its fair share of challenges. Injuries, lineup adjustments, and inconsistent performances contributed to their slow start. Now, with Sean Macdonald back from injury, Jordon Crawford thriving in his new bench role, and role players like Majok Deng, Anthony Drmic, and Fabijan Krslovic stepping up, the JackJumpers are rediscovering their winning formula.

A Culture of Resilience

Head coach Scott Roth and the organization have built a culture centered around the “Defend the Island” mentality. It’s a mindset rooted in hard work, unity, and playing for the broader Tasmanian community. The team thrives on being the league’s underdogs—a group of overlooked and undervalued players who band together to prove doubters wrong.

This identity has been on full display during their recent resurgence. Over the past month, the JackJumpers have elevated their game on both ends of the court, showcasing teamwork, grit, and selflessness. They’ve embraced the little things that make a difference:

Offensive Cohesion: Sharing the ball with extra passes and finding the best shot available.
Defensive Unity: Double-teaming opponents, forcing turnovers, and maintaining a structured approach.
Communication: Clear and precise communication, easily heard by both teammates and fans, has improved their organization and focus.

It’s evident that this team has had the difficult but necessary conversations to air frustrations and align on shared goals. Those heart-to-heart moments are often the catalyst for teams to overcome adversity and refocus.

Key Players Stepping Up

The JackJumpers’ recent success has been driven by a combination of star power and depth.

Milton Doyle and Will Magnay have been dominant, consistently leading from the front.
Sean Macdonald’s return has bolstered the rotation, adding much-needed depth and versatility.
Jordon Crawford has thrived since moving to the bench, providing energy and impact in key moments.
Role players like Majok Deng, Anthony Drmic, and Fabijan Krslovic have stepped up, contributing in both scoring and defensive roles.

This balance between stars and role players has been crucial in the JackJumpers’ resurgence, along with their defensive improvement, which has grown stronger with each game.

Back-to-Back Aspirations

With their current momentum, the JackJumpers are firmly back in the fight to defend their title. Going back-to-back is one of the toughest achievements in sports, but this team has the culture, resilience, and talent to rise to the challenge.

The road ahead won’t be easy, but if the JackJumpers continue to play with this level of effort, focus, and unity, they’ll be a formidable force come playoff time.