Tassie’s necessary “reset”

The Tasmania JackJumpers would be the first to admit it has been a tough pre-season. 

From an intense travel schedule that comprised of the NBL Blitz on the Gold Coast, the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Singapore, and then HoopsFest in Perth, injuries to key players, and headlines on the behaviour of coach Scott Roth, the defending champions weren’t themselves during September. 

However, that all changed this past week, when the JackJumpers returned home to their adoring Tasmanian faithful, raised the NBL24 champions banner, and defeated Melbourne United 81-72 in a gritty, physical performance the club has become known for. 

An open and honest Roth revealed postgame a “reset” was needed for Tasmania to get back to its best and leave the turbulent waters of weeks previous behind.   

“I think everyone felt like getting home was going to be a great remedy,” Roth said.

“For myself, I had told these guys (last Wednesday) I had to hit the reset button for myself just personally and just mentally to regroup because there’s a lot of stuff going on with us off the court. 

“Being there this week and finally having our normal practice week and preparation moving into this weekend, I think just settled the group in general. It did wonders for me. 

“Getting back home was wonderful.”

Star centre Will Magnay, who dominated against Melbourne with 18 points, 11 rebounds and five blocks, agreed. 

“I had only been in Hobart for a week since I got back from the Olympics. Got to reset the club and there was a really good energy coming into practice,” Magnay said.

The JackJumpers will look to keep the good vibes rolling on Friday night against the Cairns Taipans, with tip-off at 7:30pm AEST live on ESPN.