The name of Tasmania’s new Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) team has been revealed today, ahead of its debut in 2026.
The Tasmania Jewels were announced today, after Tasmania was awarded the ninth WNBL licence in August.
Drawing inspiration from the queen ant, the Jewels will serve as the female counterpart to the state’s NBL team, the Tasmania JackJumpers.
CEO Christine Finnegan said the brand represents both Tasmania’s natural beauty and community spirit.
“Tasmania is the Jewel in the crown of Australia and now the Jewel in the crown of the Queen Ant and a force to be reckoned with in the WNBL,” Finnegan said.
The team will maintain Tasmania’s state colours of Forrest green and Mandible yellow while introducing eucalyptus green as a “feminine accent”.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff welcomed the announcement.
“The entry of the Tasmania JackJumpers into the NBL was the catalyst for the wave of Tasmanians who are putting down screens, picking up basketballs and getting active,” Rockliff said.
“Now, with the Tasmania Jewels kicking off in 2026, we can eagerly anticipate a new wave of inspired junior basketballers.”
Altor Capital, which acquired a controlling stake in the JackJumpers in July under Tasmania Basketball Pty Ltd, will own the Jewels.
Altor’s Chief Investment Officer Ben Harrison described the expansion as an “incredible investment opportunity.”
“The WNBL is the oldest and most successful women’s league in Australia and we are proud to be part of continued expansion through the Tasmania Jewels,” Harrison said.
The club has launched a “Got the W” membership campaign, offering fans early access for $10, which includes a bumper sticker and digital membership.
