JackJumpers aim to bring the energy

JackJumpers aim to bring the energy

Monday, May 2, 2022

It’s been a whirlwind first season for Tasmania, and now just one win separates the JackJumpers from a feat very few thought was possible at the start of the year.

It’s been a whirlwind first season for Tasmania and now just one win separates the JackJumpers from a feat very few thought was possible at the start of the year - the Hungry Jack’s NBL Grand Final series.

While making it to the third game of a semi-final series against the reigning champions Melbourne United came as a surprise to many, the JackJumpers’ players and their loyal band of followers always had the belief.

"We deserve to be here,” Jack McVeigh said.

“We've earnt this right to be here and go and play in game three, all on the line, to bring it back home for the Jackies.”

A sold-out crowd packed into MyState Bank Arena on Saturday night as Tasmania defeated Melbourne by seven points.

Now, it’s back to John Cain Arena for the decider, a venue where United dominated Game 1.

McVeigh is confident the JackJumpers can turn the tables this time around.

"Our biggest focus was not being dominated on the rebounds (in Game 2),” he said.

“They (United) brought the energy game one and kind of controlled that area, and it's hard to win play-off basketball if the other team is getting possession.

"(So we want to bring the) same level of physicality, stay together, enjoy the moment, and trust the work we've put in."

McVeigh starred in Game 2, registering 15 points and a pair of clutch three-pointers when the result was in the balance.

Now he and his teammates have their eyes on the biggest prize of all.

"We want to keep playing and win this whole thing, that's our focus," McVeigh added.

"We love going to work together every day; that's why we want to keep doing it and who doesn't want to go to work and have fun.”

Game 3 between Melbourne and Tasmania will tip-off at 7:30pm AEST on Monday night live on ESPN via Foxtel and Kayo Freebies.

Tickets are still available via Ticketek