Illawarra Hawks vs Tasmania JackJumpers NBL Game Preview

Oct 11, 2024

2 min read

Illawarra Hawks vs Tasmania JackJumpers Analysis

It's a classic offence versus defence showdown as the Illawarra Hawks, the NBL's top-scoring team, host the defensively stout Tasmania JackJumpers. Illawarra will look to regain their winning form at home after a narrow loss, while Tasmania aims to continue their streaky but tough defensive play.

Key Matchups

Darius Days (ILL) vs. Will Magnay (TAS): Days has been a force in the paint, averaging 14.2 points and 8.8 rebounds, while Magnay leads Tasmania’s defence with his shot-blocking and rebounding presence.
Illawarra’s Inside Game vs. Tasmania’s Perimeter Defence: Illawarra leads the league in points in the paint (52.5 PPG), while Tasmania’s perimeter defence is the best in the league, allowing only 27.3% from three-point range.
Jordan Crawford (TAS) vs. Harvey (ILL): Both are streaky shooters capable of taking over games. Who can step up in key moments could determine the outcome.

Key Stats

Illawarra averages 102.8 points per game, the highest in the NBL.
Tasmania gives up only 82.3 points per game, the lowest in the league.
Tasmania allows the most rebounds to their opponents, while Illawarra is only 6th in rebounding.

Why Illawarra Wins

Illawarra’s ability to dominate the paint will be key. With Tasmania’s struggles in preventing points down low, the Hawks should be able to exploit that weakness. Plus, their fast starts and superior offensive firepower will help them set the tempo early.

Why Tasmania Wins

If Tasmania can slow down Illawarra’s offence and keep them from dominating inside, their defence could carry them to a win. Containing Illawarra’s three-point shooting and forcing turnovers will be vital, and if they can get consistent scoring from players like Doyle and Crawford, Tasmania can grind out a win.

This game comes down to whether Tasmania’s lockdown defence can stifle Illawarra’s high-octane offence. While the Hawks have the scoring edge, the JackJumpers’ gritty defence and ability to win ugly games give them a shot. However, Illawarra’s ability to dominate the paint and their fast starts make them the slight favourites at home.