JackJumpers prevail despite McGee starring for Hawks

The Illawarra Hawks began their NBL championship defense at home with a banner-raising ceremony but suffered a 91-86 loss to the Tasmania JackJumpers in a tightly contested season opener. Despite the defeat, the Hawks' new signing, three-time NBA champion JaVale McGee, delivered a historic debut performance.

McGee, a 37-year-old NBA veteran, was outstanding with 32 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks on 15-of-20 shooting, setting the best-ever first-game record in the 40-minute era for Illawarra. He showcased his skills with alley-oop finishes, dunks, strong defense, rebounding, and effective floor running.

However, Tasmania maintained control for most of the game, responding to every Hawks challenge. They built an 11-point lead early in the fourth quarter, and after Illawarra's 11-point run, the JackJumpers sealed the win with key contributions. Majok Deng scored seven quick points, made a crucial block, and helped secure the five-point victory, despite appearing to injure his hamstring late.

Tasmania's balanced effort included 21 points from Bryce Hamilton, 17 points and four assists from Tyger Campbell, and 11 points from Josh Bannan. The win improves their season record to 2-1, building on a previous victory in Perth. For Illawarra, Tyler Harvey added 19 points, but new import guard Jaquori McLaughlin struggled offensively, highlighting that McGee's performance exceeded expectations even in defeat.