The Tasmania JackJumpers return to MyState Bank Arena has been put on ice, with their match against the New Zealand Breakers postponed due to COVID protocols.
A statement by the JackJumpers advised the Breakers were unable to field a team due to COVID-protocols.
It’s a blow for Tasmania, who had been on the sidelines following their COVID outbreak in early January. There last hitout coming against Melbourne United on 1 January.
Looking forward to first matchup with Phoenix
The JackJumpers focus now shifts to Sunday night’s home game against the South East Melbourne Phoenix. Returning to the court after 22 days will be a challenge for the JackJumpers, with NBL teams so far struggling in their return matches from COVID.
The Phoenix know this situation first had. They took to the court over the weekend following a 28 day break, which resulted in a 16 point loss to Brisbane. The final score flattered the Phoenix, who were down 31-6 at quarter time. Post game South East Melbourne Simon Mitchell said the extended break between was a factor for his team.
It (Covid disruptions) had to contribute, it looked like we were stuck in mud. We rotated quickly but the bench looked like they were in mud as well. Brisbane were very good, they cut us to pieces
“We haven’t been able to get up and down the floor with our group, we needed to use the time wisely to blow out some cobwebs.”
Simon Mitchell, South East Melbourne Phoenix Coach
The Phoenix are yet to play the JackJumpers this season, and will field a strong team on Sunday. In addition to featuring Mitch Creek, Ryan Broekhoff, Xavier Munford and Zhou Qi, they will welcome new import Brendon Ashley to the game.
For the JackJumpers, they will welcome back Will Magnay, whose absence was felt in their narrow loss to Melbourne United. He was one of the first on the team sidelined with COVID, but was already recovering from off season foot surgery.
A key player at both ends of the floor, he’ll be critical to stopping Zhou Qi. The 216cm Chinese international leads the league in blocks (3.8 per game) and is a constant threat in the post and under the basket.
