Tasmania JackJumpers coach Scott Roth is overseeing a roster shake-up after losing four key players from their championship-winning squad, including star guard Milton Doyle, who is headed to Melbourne United.
Speaking from his Florida home during the off-season, Roth confirmed the departures of foundation players Clint Steindl, Fabijan Krslovic, Doyle and Jordon Crawford as the club gears up for the new NBL season.
“Those guys have been critical in the foundation that’s been laid here,” Roth said.
“Each conversation was a little different, but all of them were ones of appreciation.”
Roth said contract talks with Doyle, who played three seasons with the JackJumpers, ultimately fell through over financial terms.
“In Milt’s situation, we just could not get to a friendly number for both of us and at that point, we had to pivot and move on,” Roth said.
Despite the losses, Roth has retained six players from last season’s roster, including development players and signed fresh talent to add youth and versatility to the line-up.
New signings include Ben Ayre, described by Roth as having “a lot of swagger” and likely to be “a fan favourite”.
The club has also brought in Josh Bannan, who adds size and can play multiple positions, along with Nick Marshall and Kobe Williamson to bring energy and shooting power.
One big question mark remains over forward Will Magnay, who is currently training with NBA teams during the American Summer League.
Roth confirmed Magnay has until around July 19-20 to decide whether to remain with Tasmania or pursue NBA opportunities.
“If we lose him that’s going to be a wonderful story again for us,” Roth said.
“If he comes back we’re going to love him to death and probably have a great season around him.”
Roth said he has deliberately kept only two import spots filled to stay flexible if Magnay heads to the NBA.
“These guys are chasing dreams and as a coach when you see players fulfil potential that they didn’t know they had inside of them … those are the most exciting moments for me,” he said.
The JackJumpers will begin their mini-camp on July 22 with local players, before imports arrive in early August ahead of the new NBL season.
