Roth's radar: JackJumpers plot next move

The Tasmania JackJumpers have been very active in this free agency period, recruiting some local talent to bolster the roster. Now, they are looking to lock away their key import pieces ahead of NBL26.

“Knowing the play style, knowing the culture, knowing the way that Scott Roth likes to get the team to play and operate, I’m really excited to see what they can potentially be,” Pete Hooley said on The Marketplace.

The key name on all JackJumpers fans’ minds is Milton Doyle, who helped lead the team to their inaugural championship win two seasons ago, while being selected as an All-NBL Team member.

“The Milton Doyle one is the big conversation. From what I understand, the conversation is continuing in a positive manner, slowly getting towards a potential return,” ESPN’s Olgun Uluc said.

“It probably could go either way, but I’d still see that it might happen more so than it doesn’t.

“I’d bet on it happening, but I wouldn’t bet a tonne on it. It feels as though those inside the organisation - the confidence grows and it wanes just from day to day.”

It’s been reported over recent weeks that Doyle and Tasmania had a mutual interest in re-signing, and while Uluc says conversations are positive, there has still been no pen put to paper. 

Hooley understands that the JackJumpers won’t be left on the backfoot if Doyle does not return, with other clubs around the league reportedly engaging with the playmaking wing.

“If Milton Doyle doesn’t eventuate, they wouldn’t be shocked and left stunned. They’d be able to pivot and go somewhere else.

“Outside of Doyle, that other import - from what I understand - they are getting very close to getting that name, that piece.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if it is someone who could slide down to the four at times. Josh Bannan held it down at the five for some minutes if need be ... same with Majok Deng.”

The JackJumpers missed the Finals last year, following a challenging season with injuries and player availability.