DrinkWise Preview: NBL23 - Round 3 v Tasmania JackJumpers

Written by Melbourne United Media

With Melbourne United responding in epic fashion via a well-fought road win against the Wildcats in Perth on Friday night, United’s attention now turns to the JackJumpers.

The team from down south who knocked United out of last year’s playoffs return to John Cain Arena, and the Melbourne fans will be hoping their superstar favourites can extract some revenge.

The Ants had a rough start to NBL23, but recently hit some form during their rout of the NBA-defeating Adelaide 36ers on Thursday night.

Tasmania have quickly earned the reputation of a team that never says die, so United will have to be on their game in order to claim their second win for the round.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Jordan Caroline came off the bench on Friday night against the Wildcats, and the move seemed to have a positive effect.

United flew out of the blocks taking an early 9-0 lead against Perth, with Caroline then providing a high-energy spark off the bench to keep United’s momentum flowing.

The import forward’s drive and relentlessness will be key components in Melbourne United’s battle against the JJs.

The rebound count will likely be a huge factor in determining this game’s victor, so look for Caroline to be hunting the loose ball at every opportunity.

KEY MATCHUP

The JackJumpers shut down the homecoming party of the Adelaide 36ers on Thursday night, primarily due to import point guard Josh Magette’s ridiculous shot-making.

The 31-year-old Magette finished with 23 points and 7 dimes, including 5-from-8 3’s, some of which were from very long range.

Off the back of some strong challenges against elite opposition guards such as Walton Jr and Cotton, the Melbourne United group of Rathan-Mayes, Tucker, Barker and Maluach will have their hands cut out once again on the defensive end of the floor.

THE OTHER GUYS

While not the flashiest team in the league, the JackJumpers have proved themselves to be a team that will grind it out with the best of them, right until the final buzzer.

A big ingredient to their success is their willingness to rebound the ball on the offensive end. The JackJumpers lead the league in offensive rebounds per game, averaging a whopping 13.4.

Players such as new import Rashard Kelly and locals Jack McVeigh and Fabijan Krslovic will continually hound the basketball to give their team extra opportunities to score, allowing the JJs to stay in games and contest right to the end.

GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Tasmania Jack Jumpers

Tip off: 2:00pm (AEDT), Sunday 16 October, 2022

Doors open: 12:30pm (AEDT)

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Tickets: Ticketek.com.au

Watch: 10 Peach, ESPN via Kayo Sports and Foxtel