Tassie’s Chip on Shoulder

Just because so many people outside of the Tasmania JackJumpers’ walls don’t think they can win, doesn’t mean those within the organisation are listening to the noise.

After a remarkable grand final appearance in their first season in the NBL, the JackJumpers are once again climbing the ladder after some early season jitters. Despite their 0-3 start they’re now, once again, firmly wedged in the playoff picture.

Speaking to One-On-One, Tasmania import Rashard Kelly says he and his teammates are happy to just go about their business in search of success.

“Nobody wants us to win,” Kelly said. “Or nobody sees us winning, so that’s a chip on our shoulder.

“We don’t have to be on social media talking about it, we just go to work every day and handle business.

“I have a really good feeling about this team and what we can succeed and achieve this year.”

The way Kelly approaches the game is reminiscent of the wider JackJumpers squad. No fuss, no frills, but scary effectiveness.

He’s found himself in a role coming off the bench so far this season, and Will Magnay's return could alter the frontcourt rotation even more in the coming weeks.

Kelly says it’s all about the culture though.

“What impresses me the most about the JackJumpers is just the culture they’ve built, just to hear about it and see it from afar last year,” he said.

“Then to get here and see how everything is connected from the top of the state to the bottom.

“Me arriving in Tasmania is all about the culture they’ve built in the last year and having a chance to win … and the stage the NBL provides.

“The fans, you see a lot of JackJumpers tattoos going through, so [again it’s] just seeing the culture.

“If I won and NBL championship I would love to get a JackJumpers tattoo.”