DrinkWise Preview: NBL24 Round 2 vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Melbourne United is set to showcase basketball around Victoria with the return of The Grassroots Game this Sunday against the Tasmania JackJumpers.

Coming off two wins in Round 1, United will be looking to continue their momentum and remain undefeated ahead of a six-game in three round period.

Tasmania also carry strong form into Sunday afternoon, having taken down the Sydney Kings on Friday night at MyState Bank Arena.

An always tough and physical matchup, the over 10,000 fans inside a sold out John Cain Arena will be in for a treat when these two sides clash.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Making his United debut on Sunday, all eyes will be on import guard Ian Clark when he steps on the court for the first time in NBL24.

Bringing an elite reputation and pedigree as a NBA and NBL champion, as well as a deadly offensive repertoire, Clark adds in an entirely different aspect to Melbourne’s already stacked lineup.

Look for ‘IC’ to make his presence felt from the moment he checks into the game.

KEY MATCHUP

Sparks are set to fly as two of the league’s most talented guards in Matthew Dellavedova and Milton Doyle go against each other on Sunday.

Doyle led the JJs in scoring in their win against the Kings, showing off his ability to put up points from all over the court while getting his teammates involved with his passing.

Replicating this on Sunday will be no easy task with Matthew Dellavedova draped all over him, as the Aussie hoops legend aims to keep his undefeated return to United intact.

On the other end, look for Delly to continue his aggressive offensive play, hunting his three-ball and eyeing opportunities to muscle his way into the paint for turnarounds and floaters.

THE OTHER GUYS

Boasting a varied offensive lineup, Tasmania can hurt teams in many ways.

What new import guard Jordon Crawford may be lacking in height, he makes up for in speed and creativity, while Jack McVeigh’s shooting remains ever present.

NBL23 fan favourite Marcus Lee will make his return to JCA, with United fans all too familiar with his ability to change the game with his athleticism on both ends.

A huge X-factor in the contest will be what Tasmania can get from their supporting cast of shooters such as Anthony Drmic, Clint Steindl and Majok Deng.

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GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Tip off: 2pm, Sunday 8 October, 2023

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Watch: 10 Peach and Kayo Freebies

Listen: Cluch Radio