The Tasmania JackJumpers secured their first NBL title by defeating Melbourne United in a thrilling Game five in Melbourne. Jordon Crawford shone with 32 points as the JackJumpers rallied to a dramatic 83-81 victory at John Cain Arena.
Despite losing to the Sydney Kings 3-0 in their debut season in 2022, the JackJumpers made a remarkable comeback to reach the championship series.
The series against Melbourne United was intense, with the opening game seeing United triumph with a 23-point margin. However, the subsequent games were closely contested, with the JackJumpers taking a 2-1 lead after a spectacular last-second three-pointer from Jack McVeigh in game three.
After a win for United in game four, the series came down to a decider in Melbourne, where Crawford’s outstanding performance led the JackJumpers to victory.
Crawford’s 32 points in the final game marked one of the highest scoring performances in a title-series game in recent years. Under head coach Scott Roth, the JackJumpers completed a fairytale season, having narrowly missed out on a title two years ago.
Notable contributions also came from Jack McVeigh, Will Magnay, and Milton Doyle for Tasmania, while Melbourne’s starters, including Jo Lual-Acuil Jr, Matthew Dellavedova, Chris Goulding, and Luke Travers, all reached double figures.
Despite a late attempt by Dellavedova to secure the win for Melbourne, the JackJumpers held on for a historic victory.
The game was filled with thrilling moments, including Crawford’s stunning performance, Goulding’s clutch plays, and a tense battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.
In the end, Tasmania emerged victorious, sparking celebrations among their dedicated fans.
ABC/AAP
