Jewels feed into 'underdog mentality'

When the Tasmania JackJumpers first entered the Hungry Jack's NBL during the 2021-22 season, they embraced that gritty and 'Defend the Island' mentality.

That mindset helped the JackJumpers reach the Championship Series in their maiden campaign, before claiming the NBL24 title.

During their five seasons in the League, Scott Roth's side have made the post-season on four occasions, proving that their attitude is working.

Now, six years later, their female counterparts, the Jewels are entering the WNBL with a similar approach, in an attempt to replicate their success.

"We're really going to feed into that Tasmanian mentality of the underdog - gritty, tough, doing it the hard way," Jewels star Steph Reid said to ESPN.

"We want to be a team that when people play us, they remember us. The team you circle on the calendar because everyone has to be ready to go against the Jewels because that's going to be physical, tough, and everyone that comes on the court plays aggressive and physical defence.

"It's making sure day in, day out we set that standard at practice and training so that when the games come along that's the standard we live by and the identity we have."

Joining Reid on the Jewels' inaugural roster are Brooke Basham, Chloe Broomhall, Portia Chopping, Katie Deeble, Keely Froling, Darcee Garbin, Mia Jacobs, Gianna Kneepkens, Ava McDonald, Taylor Mole, Madina Okot, Nikki Parker, Andie Smith, Georgia Taylor and Ella Tofaeono.

The Claudia Brassard-coached Jewels play their first-ever game on October 15 against Geelong at MyState Bank Arena.

Read the full story here >> Steph Reid clear on Opals role ahead of World Cup debut