JackJumpers flag WNBL interest

As the NBL announced its intention to buy the WNBL, the Tasmania JackJumpers say they want in.

Mabel 6, Ivy 8 and Elsie Parker of Hobart at the JackJumpers grand final series against the Sydney Kings in 2022. Picture: Chris Kidd

Their men’s team has conquered all comers, now the JackJumpers have flagged their desire to bring a WNBL side to the state after the NBL announced plans to form a consortium and acquire a majority interest in the elite women’s league.

The NBL plans to join forces with Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate, the family office of Tesla chair Robyn Denholm, with Basketball Australia expected to retain a minority interest in the league.

Jackies CEO Christine Finnegan made her intentions clear after the announcement on Thursday morning.

“The JackJumpers congratulate all involved with this historic deal and look forward to working with the NBL to ensure the success and growth of this competition,” she said.

“When details of the operations of the new competition structure are finalised, the JackJumpers will certainly indicate their strong interest in a WNBL team located in Tasmania. “It is an exciting time for the NBL and basketball pathways for both men and women.”

Tasmania hasn’t fielded a team in the country’s top women’s league since the Hobart Islanders from 1986 to 1996.

The term sheet for the consortium gives 60 days for the transaction to be finalised if all conditions are met.

Despite the Australian Opals’ sustained success, the WNBL has been struggling for some time due to a lack of funding and exposure, and the consortium is expected to be the shot in the arm it needs.

“Women’s basketball in Australia has a phenomenal history and an even brighter future,” Denholm said.

“We are excited to be a major part of the syndicate that will guide the future direction, as well as provide the right level of support and investment needed in the sport for decades to come.”

NBL CEO David Stevenson said they would undergo a meticulous process to ensure the right changes are needed to jump-start the WNBL.

“We will spend the next few months and beyond listening and learning as much as we can from the clubs, players, fans, and key stakeholders to ensure we make the appropriate changes for long-term sustainability and the establishment of a world-class league,” Stevenson said.

The Jackies said in a press statement the club is eager to provide a similar elite pathway for female players in the state.

The Tasmania JackJumpers are poised to actively engage with the evolving WNBL landscape. “We are enthusiastic about the opportunities this initiative presents and are eager to explore the potential for establishing a WNBL team in Tasmania,” it said.

“This development aligns with our commitment to fostering basketball talent and providing pathways for both men and women in the sport.”