Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks Tips – NBL Round 18

Ryan Tucker

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Last updated: 23 Jan 2026

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Ryan Tucker 23 Jan 2026

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Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks expert predictions for Saturday’s Round 18 NBL matchup
Tip-off is at 8:00 PM AEDT at MyState Bank Arena
Illawarra is expected to take advantage of Tasmania's weakened defense.
Highlights include Illawarra's pace and offensive rebounding abilities.
Sam Froling is projected to excel, impacting both rebounds and points.

Mason Peatling of the Hawks reacts during the round 15 NBL match between Illawarra Hawks and Tasmania JackJumpers at WIN Entertainment Centre on December 31, 2025 in Wollongong, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

JackJumpers vs Hawks NBL Tips & Predictions

Illawarra are well placed to dictate terms on Saturday night, with Tasmania’s defensive structure under serious strain due to injury.

JackJumpers vs Hawks NBL Tips & Predictions
Match Details: JackJumpers vs Hawks
Best Betting Tips - JackJumpers vs Hawks
Illawarra Hawks -4.5
Over 175.5 Total Points
Sam Froling 8+ Rebounds & 14+ Points
Key Matchup to Watch
Illawarra Pace vs Tasmania Interior Depth
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks Frequently Asked Questions

These teams have split their two meetings this season, with shooting efficiency deciding both outcomes. When Illawarra have been able to score efficiently, Tasmania have struggled to slow their pace. When the Hawks went cold, the JackJumpers were able to grind them down.

That defensive grind becomes far more difficult without Will Magnay and Majok Deng. Both are central to Tasmania’s rim protection and rebounding, and their absence leaves the JackJumpers vulnerable against a Hawks team that ranks first in offensive rebounding and second in pace.

Illawarra will look to attack early, generate second-chance opportunities and force Tasmania to play faster than they prefer.

Match Details: JackJumpers vs Hawks

Competition: NBL26
Match: Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks
Date: Saturday, 24 January 2026
Start Time: 8:00 PM AEDT
Venue: MyState Bank Arena

Best Betting Tips - JackJumpers vs Hawks

Illawarra Hawks -4.5

With Tasmania short-handed in the frontcourt, Illawarra’s ability to score inside and off the offensive glass gives them a clear edge to cover as road favourites.

Over 175.5 Total Points

Three straight meetings between these teams have gone over the total. If Illawarra control tempo, Tasmania will be forced to play faster than their preferred style.

Sam Froling 8+ Rebounds & 14+ Points

Froling should see consistent touches against a weakened interior. He averages 14.1 points per game against Tasmania and has cleared both numbers comfortably in recent matchups.

Key Matchup to Watch

Illawarra Pace vs Tasmania Interior Depth

Tasmania thrive when they can slow games down. Without their primary rim protectors, their ability to control tempo and second chances is severely compromised.

Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks start?

Tip-off between Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks is at 8:00 PM AEDT, Saturday, January 24

What channel is Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks on?

You can watch Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel.

Verdict

Tasmania JackJumpers v Illawarra Hawks

This matchup tilts heavily toward Illawarra’s strengths. With pace, offensive rebounding and interior scoring all favouring the Hawks, Tasmania may struggle to impose their usual defensive identity. Illawarra should control the game flow and leave Hobart with a valuable road win.

Illawarra -4.5

Line

@9/10 - 2 Units

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Over 175.5

Game Total

@9/10 - 2 Units

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S Froling 8+

Rebounds

@1/1 - 2 Units

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S Froling 14+

Points

@7/8 - 1 Unit

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