The Tasmania JackJumpers achieved a stunning win against the Adelaide 36ers, clinching the match 104-103 with a dramatic tip-in from Milton Doyle with just 0.2 seconds left on the clock during overtime. The game, played at MyState Bank Arena, was remarkable not only for its nail-biting finish but also for the JackJumpers' extraordinary resilience amid adversity.
With key players sidelined, including Will Magnay and Sean Macdonald, the odds seemed stacked against Tasmania as they faced the 36ers. Despite trailing by seven points with just over one minute remaining, the JackJumpers staged a stunning comeback. An inspiring layup by Ian Hummer was followed by Majok Deng's dunk and, unexpectedly, the 36ers turned over the ball during the ensuing play, allowing Deng to hit the game-tying three-pointer as regulation time expired. This series of dramatic turns propelled the game to overtime.
Throughout the match, the JackJumpers showcased remarkable tenacity and teamwork. They kicked off the first quarter strong, with 30 points on the board, aided significantly by Nick Stoddart, who made his starting debut. Stoddart hit three three-pointers, energizing the home crowd and providing the JackJumpers with early momentum, leading 30-22 by the end of the first quarter.
But the game took a sharp turn during the second quarter, as the 36ers displayed their dominance, pulling off a 31-11 scoring run to close the half at 53-41. Their strategy effectively exploited Tasmania's vulnerabilities, capitalizing on free throws and consistent scoring from Kendric Davis and Isaac Humphries. Davis, leading the charge for Adelaide, delivered a career-high 39 points, alongside six rebounds and five assists.
Despite trailing by double digits at the half, the JackJumpers were not ready to yield. The third quarter saw them regain their footing, with significant contributions from Deng, who ended up with 26 points, and Doyle, who scored 22 points and provided nine assists. Tasmania's offense regained its rhythm, hitting multiple three-pointers and closing gaps until they were only down by three heading to the final quarter.
The fourth quarter was equally electric, with both teams exchanging leads. With composure and grit, the JackJumpers scored seven consecutive points to even the score at 95-95, leading to the high-stakes overtime period. Coach Scott Roth captured the essence of the win, stating, "It's a remarkable win, and one of the greatest games I've ever been part of and without question the best home game ever in this building." His emphasis on the character and work ethic of his players underscored the triumph.
Overtime began with Tasmania taking the lead but faced immediate challenges as the 36ers reclaimed their advantage briefly. The situation intensified when Montrezl Harrell made key plays for Adelaide, yet it was Doyle who would become the hero as he secured the win with his tip-in at the last moment. This was after he attempted two shots, displaying extraordinary determination.
Mike Wells, the coach of the 36ers, acknowledged his team's efforts but lamented the missed opportunities. He reflected, "We had control of the game for the majority of the contest and probably had it won multiple times. But unfortunately, we didn't make a play at the end. This is a painful one." His constant pursuit of improvement and prioritization of team unity after the loss could serve as motivation for the fixtures to come.
The JackJumpers' monumental comeback victory fortifies their position among the top teams, now holding a record of 12-10. This demanding match highlighted their resolve and ability to produce results even when the odds seem against them. With upcoming challenges against the Perth Wildcats, who will be bolstered by the return of Kristian Doolittle, the JackJumpers will need to maintain their momentum.
Meanwhile, the 36ers will look to rebound quickly as they host the Illawarra Hawks. Both teams aim to learn from this intense encounter, but it is the JackJumpers' will to win, illustrated through this thrilling match, which will be remembered as one of the highlights of the NBL season.