Jewel in the crown: Tasmania's WNBL debut confirmed

The Tasmania Jewels will make their historic WNBL debut on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

The franchise’s first game will be at home, at MyState Bank Arena against the Geelong Venom. 

It will be the first time a WNBL team has been in the state of Tasmania since 1996, when the Hobart Islanders hosted their last home game.

With marquee player and Opal Steph Reid, 200-game veteran Keely Froling, Australian star Darcee Garbin and a collection of Tasmanian juniors in Andie Smith, Taylor Mole and more – the Jewels have built a truly competitive foundation, under Head Coach Claudia Brassard. 

Brassard said the entire state is awaiting the Jewels’ debut. 

“In just over 100 days Tasmanians can watch and cheer for their very own Tasmania Jewels in a WNBL season-opening match right here at home,” Brassard said.

“To be able to share this milestone moment, this part of history, with a home crowd is the stuff of dreams.

“Tasmanians are really getting behind the Jewels, and we can’t wait to suit up and get out there and play for every Tasmanian, especially young Tasmanians, to build something bigger than basketball.”  

 “The Jewels Membership will go live on July 14 and we’re excited for Tasmanians to join the Jewels.”