JackJumpers cop injury blow

From a development player to a key pillar of a championship, Sean Macdonald has emerged like few others in the NBL, meaning a three-month spell on the sidelines is a bitter blow for the Tasmania JackJumpers. 

Macdonald landed awkwardly during the JackJumpers' Intercontinental Cup game on Sunday, spraining his ankle, and is now set to be out until Christmas. 

Tasmania has wasted no time bringing in the reinforcements, with Lachie Barker called in as a nominated replacement player.

Tasmanian-born Barker took to the floor in 11 games for the JackJumpers in the NBL24 season, taking his NBL games tally to 40, after previous seasons with Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

“Lachie is a great addition to the group. We’re pleased to welcome him back as he’s obviously already familiar with our systems and we loved having him as part of the group last season,” coach Scott Roth said.

28-year-old Barker has joined the JackJumpers' group in Perth ahead of Thursday’s Round 1 season-opener against Melbourne United.

The JackJumpers also announced import Craig Sword would miss their first game, due to concussion, with Brody Nunn replacing him in the game day squad.