Tasmania JackJumpers to host Christmas Day game against South East Melbourne Phoenix

JackJumpers fans will have an extra dose of Christmas spirit this year with the NBL announcing they’ll host a Christmas Day blockbuster at MyState Bank Arena. All you need to know >>

Milton Doyle, Will Magnay and Jack McVeigh from the Tasmania JackJumpers. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

JackJumpers fans will have an extra way to get in the Christmas spirit this year with the NBL announcing the Jackies will host a Christmas Day blockbuster in Hobart.

After the success of last year’s historic NBL Christmas Day game in Sydney, the NBL has doubled down for the upcoming season with Sydney and Hobart set to host games.

While the Kings will clash with Illawarra at Quodas Bank Arena, Tasmania will play host to the South East Melbourne Phoenix in what promises to be a sold-out MyState Bank Arena in Hobart at 5.30pm.

Last season’s inaugural NBL Christmas Day game created history as the first Australian professional sporting fixture played on December 25 and was the most watched regular season NBL game.

Acting JackJumpers co-CEO Christine Finnegan was thrilled about the fixture.

“We’re delighted to host such an occasion and bring our broader community together for a momentous celebration,” she said.

“We think the 5.30pm timeslot is perfect for the Tasmanian market as it gives people time to spend time with family and friends during the day and then enjoy a new tradition in the evening.

Milton Doyle of the Jackjumpers shoots during the round 12 NBL match between Tasmania Jackjumpers and New Zealand Breakers at MyState Bank Arena, on December 26, 2022, in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)

“Christmas Day is different for everyone, some people don’t have a lot of family around, and others will come to the game with their loved ones or watch it on broadcast together. We’re very excited to bring the JackJumpers family together at such a special time.”

NBL boss Larry Kestelman said it made sense to expand on last season’s huge Christmas Day success.

“After the incredible response we had last year it was important for us to schedule a huge Christmas double-header this season,” Kestelman said.

“Last season’s game between Sydney and Melbourne United was watched by more than 300,000 people and was one of the most popular programs on the day. It not only delivered a fantastic in-stadium atmosphere and experience but was also a must-watch TV event.”

Kestelman said the NBL was fast establishing a new Christmas tradition.

“Sports fans everywhere told us they want NBL on Christmas and having listened, we acted,” he said.

JackJumpers fan Lily Anning, 10, of Montrose in the crowd at MyState Bank Arena. For TasWeekend superfans story. Picture: Supplied

“We were the first professional sport to play a game on Christmas and as our league continues to grow, we want to keep breaking new ground and innovating. NBL on Christmas is now set to become a marquee fixture on the Australian sporting calendar, much like the NBA’s Christmas games are in America.

“This year’s Christmas double-header will be even bigger and we are confident both the Kings and JackJumpers will put on a wonderful, family-friendly day of world-class sport and entertainment.”

The addition of the JackJumpers Christmas Day fixture adds to a bumper festive period for Tasmanian sports fans with the Hobart Hurricanes traditionally playing Big Bash cricket on Christmas Eve.

The Mercury understands the Hurricanes will again push to host the game given it’s their most attended game of the season.

As part of the fixture announcement, the NBL revealed games would also be played on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, with Adelaide hosting Brisbane on December 24 and Cairns hosting Perth on December 26.