Construction issues have resulted in the Tasmanian JackJumpers basketball team being without a permanent high-performance facility, causing frustration for the team and leading to potential relocation.
The Tasmanian government, Glenorchy City Council, and JackJumpers basketball team owner Larry Kestelman are currently deadlocked in discussions regarding the delayed $50 million multi-sport facility at Wilkinsons Point in Hobart’s northern suburbs. This situation has put a strain on the team’s long-term plans.
The delays have prompted the JackJumpers to consider relocating their planned facility to Kingborough, where their current training facilities are located. According to JackJumpers CEO Christine Finnegan, these facilities do not meet professional standards, making player recruitment and retention challenging.
Furthermore, the ongoing delay may have implications for the proposed $150 million mixed-use development at Wilkinsons Point, which was part of the government’s agreement to secure the JackJumpers’ NBL license. This could impact the development of the area in Hobart’s suburbs.
Despite the government’s commitment to the region, there is widespread speculation about the potential relocation of the facility, leaving players, staff, and the local basketball community in a state of uncertainty.
In light of the uncertainty, JackJumpers coach Scott Roth has expressed concerns about the impact on player recruitment, a sentiment echoed by local basketball clubs facing similar facility challenges.
It is evident that the team’s frustration and concern are mounting, and with no clear resolution in sight, a promising and thrilling project is at risk of stagnation.