Sad news for Tasmania JackJumpers: They are back

Tasmania JackJumpers’ NBL success over Melbourne United was welcomed with a loud response from the Ant Army.
Tasmania JackJumpers fans gathered out in their hundreds to celebrate a moment of glory after the team won their first NBL championship in Melbourne on Sunday night.

The young club, which won the title in only its third NBL season, defeated Melbourne United in the five-game championship series, winning the final game 83-81.

Nic Moltow attended the home arena celebration at Hobart’s Derwent Entertainment Centre, where team captain Clint Steindl signed his forehead.

Mr Moltow confessed that the decision was taken fully in the moment.

“They did a fantastic job out there, and I think spur of the moment is what they represent,” he went on to say.

The excitement was matched by pair Cam Mann and Arielle Abrahams, who said they were ‘ecstatic” about the Jackies’ victory.

“I nearly cried,” Mr Mann said.

“It’s the best thing ever, a good feeling. The best thing for the state.”

Excitement palpable

Earlier on Monday, the Tasmania JackJumpers touched down in Hobart to a heroes’ welcome.

“My anxiety was through the roof in the last minute,” young fan Lachlan Mahonney said of the match.

He said it was “just an amazing feeling” when the final buzzer sounded.

His mother Jaqueline was equally thrilled to see her team seal the deal, with a bet with her family meaning she’s now set for her very first JackJumpers-themed tattoo.

“A bet’s a bet,” she said.

“We’ve watched every single game. We just love the Jackies. I’m happy to get a tattoo.”

Tassie unites over team victory.
Merrin Prins, a foundation devotee, said the win had been years in the making.

Ms Prins and her family watched the replay of the game just after it ended to relive the victory.

“We signed up before the team was formed and we used to go to [former NBL club Hobart Devils games], as members, so this is a full circle [moment],” she added.

“I know the Devils were big, but this has united the whole state, which is what I love.”

Interest in the sport has grown dramatically after the Tasmania JackJumpers joined the National Basketball League in 2021, winning the championship series in their inaugural season.