Will the Tasmania JackJumpers Soar Again? Tasmania Holds Breath as Off-Season Uncertainty Looms

Get Berto & JD's first reactions after the end of the JJs season.

Questions & Challenges heading into NBL26

The final buzzer has sounded on the Tasmanian Jackjumpers' season, leaving a bittersweet taste in the mouths of fans, players and staff alike. While the team didn't reach the playoffs, their grit and determination, particularly in the face of a season riddled with injuries, left a lasting impression. Now, as the off-season begins, the biggest question looming isn't if the Jackjumpers will return, but how.

Free Agency: The Biggest Challenge

"It wasn't the most successful season we've had," admits co-host Jared "J.D." Duggan of the Tasmanian Takeover podcast, "but I think there were a lot of positives that come out of it." This sentiment echoes throughout the fanbase, who are eager to see how the team addresses a pivotal off-season. The key question: can they build on the strong foundation laid this year and return stronger than ever?

Free agency is the immediate elephant in the room. The podcast hosts highlight the need to strengthen the team, particularly in the import positions. "That position didn't work for us," Clint "Berto" Bertenshaw stated bluntly, referring to the team's third import slot. "What I think we need in that position is a stud four/five, who can back up Mags when needed." This suggests a significant shift in strategy for Head Coach Scott Roth, who, according to the podcast, has been actively working on free agency since Christmas.

The Uncertain Futures of Key Players

The future of several key players remains uncertain, adding a layer of suspense to the upcoming roster decisions.

All reports are showing that last season's Championship hero Jack McVeigh is likely to head over to Japan or Europe if he does not get another NBA contract with the Houston Rockets.

While this news is disheartening for fans, the hosts express hope that McVeigh will return to Tasmania one day, “a whole new level of Jack McVeigh,” as Berto playfully put it.

While the hosts strongly advocate for retaining key players like Milton Doyle and Jordan Crawford, their futures haven't been officially confirmed. Crawford's emotional response to a question about potentially playing his last game for the Jackjumpers suggests a strong bond with the team and the Tasmanian community. "Tasmania's home," Crawford stated. "I'm not…considering playing anywhere else." This heartfelt sentiment is a reminder of the deep connection between the players and their fans.

On-Court Improvements: A Focus on Statistics

Beyond individual player decisions, the team's overall performance also requires attention. JD points to shooting accuracy as a critical area for improvement, stating, "I'd like that to be closer to 50%, I'd like that to be 48, 49% next season." As the Jackjumpers season average was a touch over 43%.

Building for the Future: A New High-Performance Center

Looking ahead, there's a silver lining: the construction of a new high-performance center is underway. "They've actually started digging at the location," Berto announced enthusiastically. This project symbolizes a commitment to building a sustainable future for the team, moving beyond the "training in a shed" limitations they've faced.

The Road Ahead: Anticipation and Hope

The off-season promises both challenges and opportunities. Will the Jackjumpers successfully navigate the complexities of free agency, retain their core players, and improve their performance on the court? Only time will tell. One thing is certain: the eyes of Tasmania – and a growing fanbase – are keenly focused on the team's next moves. The anticipation is palpable, mirroring the hope and excitement that define the passionate Tasmanian basketball community.