Tasmania JackJumpers sign local Jacob Richards as Development Player

He’s been a training player for the last two seasons and now that commitment has been rewarded with a Tasmanian added to the JackJumpers roster. WATCH THE VIDEO.

The Tasmania JackJumpers have added a fresh dose of local flavour to its roster with the signing of Jacob Richards as a Development Player for the 2023/24 season.

Practising with the group over the last two seasons as a training player, Richards is no stranger to Tasmanian basketball fans with the Hobart Chargers youngster averaging 13 points and eight rebounds per game this past NBL1 South season.

Jacob Richards who has signed with the Tasmania JackJumpers as a development player. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Announced to the group during their mini training camp, JackJumpers coach Scott Roth said the contract was due reward for Richards.

“This kid has been showing up every day for two years with no expectations for a spot and he just gives everything and constantly wants to be better every day,” Roth said.

“He came to me to ask to train again this season, again with no expectations and he continues to challenge these guys, embrace our values, and just be a really valuable guy both on and off the floor. I think he wholeheartedly deserves this and I’m really pleased he can now call himself a true JackJumper.

“It was emotional for him, and for me as well. I’m really proud of him.

“He really does define that Defend the Island mantra not just as a Tasmanian, but importantly he displays the gritty, relentless, selfless, hardworking attitude we pride ourselves on as JackJumpers. This is a really special moment for this club.”

Richards was awarded the Chargers Coaches Award at the end of the season. Picture: Linda Higginson

The 22-year-old forward added that becoming a member of the playing roster was something he’d always wanted to achieve.

“It’s a dream come true, I’m really proud of the work I’ve put in over the last two years and I’m really excited to continue to grow with the group,” Richards said.

“When they (the JackJumpers) came in this is what I wanted to do. I wanted to play for the Tasmania JackJumpers.

After a going through his injury setbacks, Richards admitted he was shocked to receive a contract but was ready to continue to put in the hard work in the hopes of earning his way onto the court this season.

“I did not see that announcement coming at all, so it was just a whirlwind of emotion,” he said.

“It’s something I’ll never forget and I’m excited to go to work and truly feel part of the club.

“It’s been a tough couple of years with tearing my meniscus and two concussions in a row but I got back in the gym and got my body right.”

Richards replaces fellow Tasmanian Tre Armstrong after he opted out of his Development Contract in July.

The JackJumpers kick off their NBL24 campaign on September 29 against the Perth Wildcats.