Round 13 Game Preview - Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Round 13 – Melbourne United

Monday 23 December, 7:30pm AEDT tip-off

John Cain Arena                     

LIVE ON ESPN

State of Play

The JackJumpers return to John Cain Arena this Monday for the annual open air game against Melbourne United, marking their first matchup at the venue since last season’s NBL Championship Series Game 5.

Tasmania comes in with five straight wins, fuelled by standout performances across the squad. Milton Doyle continues to lead the team in scoring and Sean Macdonald's return has added a much-needed spark. New recruit Ian Hummer will also make his debut, adding depth to the lineup.

Melbourne, despite three consecutive losses, remains a formidable opponent. Matthew Dellavedova anchors their offense, Jack White controls the boards, and Chris Goulding (18 ppg) may potentially return the line up and pose as a scoring threat.

With both teams determined to take the edge in their 1-1 season series, expect a fierce battle as the JackJumpers look to extend their streak and Melbourne aims to bounce back in front of their home crowd.

Last Time They Met

Saturday 28 September – MyState Bank Arena

The JackJumpers kicked off their season with an 81-72 win over Melbourne United, marking the night they raised their championship banner with a performance full of grit and control. Will Magnay was instrumental, dominating with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks, setting the tone on both ends of the floor.

Jordon Crawford stepped up once again, scoring 19 points and hitting key shots at crucial moments. Milton Doyle contributed across the board with 13 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, while Reuben Te Rangi added 11 points, including a clutch three-pointer late in the game.

Melbourne United, coming off two wins, struggled to find rhythm against Tasmania's smothering defense. Jack White led United with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Ian Clark added 13 points, and Chris Goulding scored 11, though he shot just 2/10 from three-point range. Matthew Dellavedova provided eight points and five assists in a tough matchup with Crawford.

Tasmania’s strong start, including an early 9-2 lead, set the tone for the game. By halftime, the JackJumpers had extended their advantage to 44-33, and despite Melbourne’s efforts, the lead never dipped below double digits in the second half.

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2024/25

TASMANIA JACKJUMPERS 81 (Crawford 19, Magnay 18, Doyle 13)
MELBOURNE UNITED 72 (White 21, Clark 13, Goulding 11)

BOX SCORE

Ins & Outs

• Tasmania JackJumpers: Will Magnay (Fractured Toe)
• Melbourne United: Chris Goulding (calf) expected to return round 13, Marcus Lee (back)