Fans turn out to toast Jackjumpers’ success
Tasmania Jackjumpers captain Clint Steindl reckons the club's maiden NBL title will be talked about for generations.
The 7000 supporters who celebrated the team's return to home soil is proof there are plenty keen to share the tale.
The Jackjumpers touched down in Hobart on Monday, a day after claiming the championship with an 83-81 win over Melbourne United in the series decider.
The first port-of-call for American guard Jordon Crawford, who top-scored with 32 points, was a dip in the River Derwent.
“Hearing all the hype about the support and seeing it first-hand, (the fans) deserve it,’’ he said. “They've been with us ... bringing the island together.
“It might be a whole week before we sit back and realise what we've done. Just talking about it now is something else.’’
Crawford, who is deeply religious, said the victory in opposition territory meant even more on Easter Sunday.
“That was the day He had risen. He was for sure with us,’’ he said.
Tasmania defied expectations to finish runners-up in their NBL debut in 2021/22, then made the semis in year two last season.
Jack Mcveigh, named MVP in the fivegame championship series after nailing a long-range three-point winner in game three, has been with the franchise since the beginning.
“It still doesn't feel real. It's unbelievable,” he told the crowd.
“The three-year journey leading to this ... I wouldn't want to do this for any other club.’’
Coach Scott Roth has coined the “defend the island” mantra – and responded to a quip he would have outpointed Premier Jeremy Rockliff in popularity at the recent state election.
“I'm so proud to represent the state. I love Tasmania. I love what you stand for,’’ the American said.
Clint Steindl, the club's only captain, said the fan event, which reached its ticketed capacity, was on another level.
“I'm so glad we could take you along on this journey," he said.
“This is going to be talked about for generations.’’ – AAP