‘Island Defended’ says JackJumpers coach Scott Roth after downing Melbourne United in NBL championship decider
“I love Tasmania” - Scott Roth. Emotions run high as the JackJumpers claim historic first NBL championship with game five win over Melbourne United.
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ISLAND DEFENDED
Those were the first words out of the choked-up throat of master coach Scott Roth after his JackJumpers pulled off a Melbourne miracle downing a talent-packed United in the game five title decider at John Cain Arena on Sunday to claim Tasmania’s historic first NBL championship.
By winning their first NBL crown, the Jackies have also boosted their sale price as NBL owner Larry Kestelman looks for a buyer, and can now ask more than the $30m it was estimated the franchise was worth before the JJs landed the championship.
With tears in his eyes, barely able to speak and soaked in ice water from the team’s drink barrel, Roth was highly-emotional at seeing the fruits of his labour come to fruition, having started the franchise three years ago, building it into a powerhouse from scratch and connecting the state.
“Island defended,” Roth said. “It was our motto, we fought like hell and we’re coming home with the trophy.
“We just beat two giants of Australian basketball on their home floor [Perth Wildcats and Melbourne United] – United is filled with champions but our guys just kept continuing to believe.
“They [United] have got an amazing team, Dean [Vickerman] is a great coach.
“These games [grand final series] came down to last possessions and…I can’t believe it.
“I’m really happy for our staff, obviously for our players, but more importantly for Tasmania, we defended the island for you.
“I love Tasmania.”
Pocket dynamo Jordon Crawford kept his best for last, pouring in a match-winning 32 points, equalling his all-time best in the NBL.
“That’s what it’s all about, Jackies basketball, grinding it out, fighting until the end _ this one’s for Tassie,” Crawford said.
“This league is amazing. The competition here is top of the line.
“We have an amazing group, I love these guys and it’s an honour to play with them.”
Roth revealed his daughter had become ill three days ago and did not know if he would even be available to coach in game four.
“They stayed back in Hobart and I wouldn’t have done it without their support and love, and we did it,” Roth said.
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