'Jekyll & Hyde' JackJumpers survive Phoenix late run

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JackJumpers Majok Deng scored two of his 21 points at the free throw line with 14.6 seconds to go to put Tasmania up 87-84 and South East Melbourne Phoenix missed three threes to tie it up in the closing seconds including a monster Bryce Hamilton block to seal it in Round 14 of NBL26 in Hobart on Monday, December 29, 2025.

All-NBL First Team candidate Nathan Sobey missed two three balls, the first rimmed out for an offensive rebound, the second was a little more brutal off the backboard and came off the JackJumpers, on the inbounds play Ian Clark came off a high hand off but Hamilton blocked the attempt.

It was a big time win for the 10-12 JackJumpers. They moved to within a game of fifth placed 11-10 Perth Wildcats and created separation against the New Zealand Breakers at 8-13 in seventh.

"At the end of the day you’re relieved to get out of the line in the end," JackJumpers head coach Scott Roth said.

"It got a little bit carried away towards the end, but there was a lot of life before that.

"I don’t know how many times I have to say it, but we are a work in progress and it’s not pretty.

"We played a really good first half of basketball, and then got away from a few things and, you know, found a way to get it across the line.

"We’ve had obviously too many of those here at home, but our guys stayed poised long enough to make enough plays down the stretch.

"Give them credit – they fought like hell to get back into the game and make it as close as it was.

"We’re two steps ahead, one step back, and a little bit Doctor Jekyll, Mister Hyde at times. But these guys just keep fighting, and the effort was really good again."

Hamilton added 17 points on efficient shooting, while Josh Bannan (11 points, seven rebounds) and Tyger Campbell provided steady contributions despite a tough shooting night.

Deng paid tribute to the JackJumpers fans, showing their loyalty game in and game out despite the inconsistent first half of NBL26.

"It feels good," Deng said.

"We’ve got the best fans in the league. If this was another place and we were losing this many games at home, they’d turn on you, and they haven’t done that.

"They’re the sixth man, they always give us life, and it’s finally good to give them one back."

On his ability to knock down two clutch free throws, Deng added: "I pride myself on being the guy that can take those shots. Free throws or any shot in those moments.

"I practice those situations and picture myself in them. I talk to myself and tell myself it’s nothing – just take my time and let it rip."

The JackJumpers were on top early (23–15 in the first quarter) and carried a 49–33 lead into halftime, looking in control.

But South East Melbourne refused to fold. Led by captain Sobey, the Phoenix steadily clawed their way back into the contest with a 23-point third quarter and a frantic final term, cutting the margin to a single possession in the closing moments. Tasmania’s composure at the foul line and key defensive rebounds proved decisive down the stretch.

Key Details

• Round: 14
• Result: Tasmania JackJumpers 87 def. South East Melbourne Phoenix 84
• When: Sunday, 29th December 2025
• Where: MyState Bank Arena, Tasmania
• Attendance: 4,340
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Majok Deng (Tasmania JackJumpers) starred with 21 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and two blocks in 28 minutes.
• Nathan Sobey (South East Melbourne Phoenix) scored 27 points, and had two rebounds, five assists and two steals in 36 minutes.

What Happened

The JackJumpers established early control at home, taking a 23-15 first quarter advantage before extending their lead to 49-33 at halftime. Tasmania's balanced scoring attack and efficient shooting helped them build a commanding 16-point buffer, setting the foundation for what would become a hard-fought victory.

However, the Phoenix mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter, outscoring the hosts 23-17 to cut the deficit to 10 points heading into the final period. South East Melbourne's improved three-point shooting and aggressive defensive pressure began to shift momentum, making the closing stages increasingly tense.

The fourth quarter delivered classic NBL drama, with the Phoenix completing their remarkable rally to outscore Tasmania 28-21 in the final frame. Despite trailing by as many as 19 points during the contest, South East Melbourne's persistence nearly paid off as they closed to within three points at the final buzzer.

Majok Deng proved instrumental for the JackJumpers with his stellar 21-point display on efficient 6-from-12 shooting from the field, including 3-from-7 from downtown. His 75% accuracy from the charity stripe and seven boards provided crucial stability during the Phoenix's late surge. Bryce Hamilton added 17 points on outstanding 6-from-10 shooting, while Josh Bannan contributed 11 points and seven rebounds in a solid all-round effort.

For the Phoenix, Nathan Sobey's exceptional 27-point performance nearly single-handedly kept his team competitive. The captain shot 10-from-21 from the field and connected on five triples, showcasing his clutch ability throughout the contest. Owen Foxwell provided valuable support with 17 points on efficient 5-from-9 shooting, while John Brown III added 13 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. However, the Phoenix struggled from beyond the arc, managing just 26.47% accuracy compared to Tasmania's more respectable 36.36% from three-point range.