Tasmania JackJumpers sign Gorjok Gak

Tasmania JackJumpers have confirmed the signing of a new 211cm player set to play a key defensive role.

Tasmania JackJumpers have made their first move in the NBL Free Agency period with the signing of big man Gorjok Gak.

Gak will join the NBL24 Champions on a two-year deal with a team option of retaining the 211cm centre on the second year of his contract.

“I’m excited to join the JackJumpers and get down to Tasmania. I’ve heard great things about the culture and obviously that has created an environment where players can thrive, and that’s fostered success super quickly” Gak said of his signing.

“Really looking forward to getting to know the guys, coaches and front office. All the interactions I’ve had so far, everyone has been incredibly supportive and professional”.

Gak grew up in Sydney before moving to the US College system where he attended Florida State University, finishing as blocks leader in the Western Athletic Conference.

“Gorjok is a really athletic big man who brings a lot of size and length to our group. He really embraces that next man up mentality which he showed that during his season with Phoenix last year” JackJumpers head coach Scott Roth said.

“A great rebounder, shot blocker and will provide that extra rim protection for us”.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 17: Gorjok Gak of the Phoenix rebounds the ball during the round 20 NBL match between South East Melbourne Phoenix and Sydney Kings at John Cain Arena, on February 17, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Gak played for South East Melbourne Phoenix this past season where he played 17 games at an average of 15 minutes for 4.9 rebounds, 0.3 assists and 5.4 points.

Gak’s inclusion may just be the first of many for the reigning NBL champions despite the majority of the list already locked in for next season.

Local star Will McDowell-White is set to be one of the biggest free agents with many believing Tasmania may be a destination for the Brisbane-native and former New Zealand Breakers star.

With McDowell-White appearing more likely to land at either Adelaide, Brisbane or South East Melbourne, NBL media’s Peter Hooley believes the JackJumpers recent success may be a reason he doesn’t sign with Tasmania.

“My initial thought was South East Melbourne because I think they can offer more to him but thinking what he likes and what he succeeds playing alongside, I think Adelaide is the right fit,” Hooley said.

“I think Tasmania is obviously the right fit (also) because they have Milton Doyle and Will Magnaybut a lot of people will have the question of they just won a title so how will that look.”

With game five hero Jordon Crawford currently a free agent, McDowell-White’s decision on potentially joining Tasmania may unlock Crawford’s future in Tasmania at the point guard position.

The JackJumpers have already announced the re-signings of MVP Jack McVeigh (two years), Anthony Drmic (one year) and Majok Deng (two years) this post season.