A commanding 29-12 second quarter helped drive the Tasmania JackJumpers to a second straight win at the NBL Blitz, defeating the New Zealand Breakers 92-85 on the Gold Coast.
In what was a re-match of last seasons semi finals, two of the leagues’s best defensive teams both were keen to build on their opening round Blitz victories. But this time it was Tasmania who took out the win, thanks to some late big shots from Jack McVeigh (19 points) and new recruit Jordon Crawford (18 points, 6 assists), who led another strong team performance.
What started as a tight game, both teams traded baskets early as Tasmania held the early advantage to lead by three after the first quarter. But the JackJumpers took charge in the second quarter, going on a 23-5 run in the opening seven minutes in the quarter, including eight straight points from Crawford at one stage. Tasmania did a lot of their damage from attacking the rim and getting to the line, where they had 24 attempts for the half.
The new-look JackJumpers squad have a bit more offensive power than previous seasons. Once again they looked very eager to moving the ball and sharing the scoring. This was highlighted by Milton Doyle, who in one play was in a good match-up with the ball in his hands and could score, but chose to pass to a cutting Majok Deng for a dunk and three point play.
After a disappointing second quarter, the Breakers started coming back in the third quarter through new imports Parker Jackson-Cartwright (16 points) and Zylan Cheatham (14 points). The guard/centre combo look to already be working well together, as they cut down seven at the final break.
The Breakers continued to threaten in the final quarter, getting as close as 6 points. But some late big shots from Jack McVeigh, who was 4/4 from outside for the game, as well as some clutch baskets from Lee and Deng, saw the Tasmania win 92-85 winners.
The JackJumpers (2-0) now have a rest day before they play their final game of the Blitz against the Adelaide 36ers (0-2) at 5pm Friday 21 September.
Game notes
- Walter Brown and Jarred Bairstow did not hit the court in this match. All 10 JackJumpers who did play got on the scoresheet
- Marcus Lee fouled out for the second straight game. After fouling out early in the third quarter against the Phoenix, Roth opted this time to bring Lee to the bench after his forth foul, allowing him to be an option in the final quarter.
- After missing both pre-season games against Melbourne United, as well as the opening Blitz game, Clint Steindl had his first court time for the season. Logging 11 minutes for 3 points (3/4 from the fol line).
