NBL22 Match Recap: Round 10 vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Melbourne United have fallen just short in their comeback attempt against the Tasmania JackJumpers.

Despite scoring the first points of the game through Jo Lual-Acuil Jr, the opening term was one to forget for United.

JLA, alongside Matthew Dellavedova and Chris Goulding provided a solid scoring punch for United, however the JackJumpers seemingly could not miss across the first 10 minutes of action.

Tassie splashed five three pointers in the period and closed the quarter on a 19-6 run to take a 36-23 lead into the first break.

Coming into the second term, Melbourne looked more like themselves, dialling up the defensive pressure and making life much more difficult for the visitors.

Shea Ili brought his usual fantastic defensive energy off the bench, helping to force turnovers and getting to the rim for six points.

This, combined with great effort from Delly drives and hot shooting from CG helped United cut the JJ’s lead to nine points before ultimately heading into half-time trailing by 12. 

Perhaps boosted by an amazing performance from United number 1 ticket holder Tones And I, Melbourne came out looking like a team on a mission after half-time.

The defending champs started the term on a 19-4 run which included a few milestone moments for CG43.

Goulding knocked down his 900th career three-pointer in the term, as well as passing Melbourne Tigers legend Dave Simmons to move into 46th all-time in NBL scoring.

There was no time for United to celebrate however, as Tassie put together an 11-0 run to end the quarter and head into the final 10 minutes with a seven-point lead.

Entering the last term, JLA quickly erased Tasmania’s lead all by himself, going on a personal 8-0 run to push United in front.

It was a career night for the league’s best big man. Big Jo posted 26 points and 21 rebounds, both career highs, and lifted United when they needed it.

Despite this, missed free-throws from the home side and tough shot-making from the JJs was ultimately too much for Melbourne.
Tassie ran away with a 94-85 victory, spoiling United’s return to John Cain Arena.

Melbourne’s next opportunity to secure in front of its home fans will come on Saturday, when they host the Perth Wildcats at 8PM.