Australian basketball legend Andrew Gaze believes the NBL has a “significant jump” on the AFL in Tasmania.

The JackJumpers begin their NBL Finals campaign tonight against Melbourne United and have captured the hearts and minds of the Tasmanian community.

Gaze says the NBL’s commitment to Tasmania has given them a head start on the AFL, who could expand to the state in the future.

“This will sound ridiculous and people in Victoria will not understand it. Right now, the NBL has got a significant jump on the AFL,” Gaze told SEN.

“It is a story that basketball people appreciate...I don't know if everyone else really understands.

“If you go to Tasmania right now and see the impact the JackJumpers have had...every game is sold out. It is captivating the whole state.

“They are making significant inroads with what they're doing because the success they're having.”

Tip-off between Tasmania and Melbourne is 7:30pm AEST tonight at John Cain Arena in game one of the Semi-Final series. The game will be broadcast live and free on ESPN via Kayo Freebies.