JackJumpers bracing for physical battle in NBL opener
Shayne Hope |
Tasmania captain Will Magnay expects a rugby-like “dogfight” when the JackJumpers lock horns with Melbourne United in the NBL season opener.
The teams’ tense rivalry, which peaked in the epic 2024 championship series, took a new twist this season when former Jackies star Milton Doyle and Fabijan Krslovic joined Melbourne.
Scott Roth’s line-up features fresh import trio Tyger Campbell, Bryce Hamilton and David Johnson, while former Brisbane Bullets forward Josh Bannan will line up next to Magnay in a new-look front court.
Doyle is one of three new imports for United and is set to start alongside Tyson Walker and former NBA big-man Jesse Edwards, following the departure of key pair Matthew Dellavedova and Jack White.
But for all the changes, Magnay expects more of the same against perennial title-contenders Melbourne at MyState Bank Arena on Thursday night.
“They’re similar to us; their system doesn’t change too much and their players are easily adaptable in there,” Magnay told reporters on Wednesday.
“It’s going to be a dogfight again, like it always is, and probably closer to rugby than it is to basketball, which is always fun.
“It will be good to be out there with new faces for us and new faces for them.”
Doyle declined an offer to stay with Tasmania, where he spent three seasons and was named in the 2023 All-NBL first team.
But Magnay holds no ill-feelings towards the American guard or Krslovic, who both featured in the JackJumpers’ 2024 title win over Melbourne.
The first-year captain hopes Tasmania’s passionate fans won’t cross a line when the pair return to Hobart.
“It’s important to get after them and cheer against them like they’re the enemy, but just respect what they did for us as a club in their short period,” Magnay said.
“They’re obviously great friends and we’re just out there competing.
“They did what they thought was best for their careers and their families … and I just hope everyone respects that but still cheers against them and cheers for us.”
Doyle expects a “great environment” in front of his former fans.
“I think they’ll be good with me,” Doyle said. “I think I played well there and helped them out there. They’re a good group, so I think it will be good.”
Both Tasmania and Melbourne have two games this week.
The JackJumpers travel to take on Perth on Saturday, while United host New Zealand on Sunday.
AAP
