JackJumpers "optimistic" on Deng return

The Tasmania JackJumpers have provided an update on the likelihood of having Majok Deng return this season. 

The power forward sprained his ankle last week during training, and has been ruled out of Saturday's game against South East Melbourne. 

While Deng faces a road to recovery in order to make a comeback before the season ends, the club is "optimistic" on his status.  

“He’s spent the last two days doing some spot shooting which has been the first two days back for him,” JackJumpers' assistant coach, Jack Fleming, said.

“It’ll be change of direction and getting used to the force now. We’ll reassess in about a week’s time and see how he’s tracking.

“He’s still got a fair few hoops to get through, obviously no contact practice. We’ll see how he goes next week and progress from there, but we’re optimistic.”

The JackJumpers are locked in a fight with the Adelaide 36ers for the 6th and last Finals spot, and three straight losses hasn't stopped Fleming from remaining positive. 

“We’ve put ourselves in winning positions in New Zealand and Sydney, we just have to be better for a little bit longer,” Fleming said.

“We’re backing the guys on the floor to do that. We’re lucky we’ve got a couple at home to finish off, and a game in Melbourne where we’ve played well previously before. There’s no reason we can’t get some W’s.”

The JackJumpers play the Phoenix on Saturday night at 5:30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.