Round 1 of the NBL26 season begins in the Apple Isle on Thursday night with a matchup between the Tasmania JackJumpers and Melbourne United. Both clubs are expected to be competing for a top 6 finish this season, so we should be in for an entertaining game first up. We bring you our full game preview and best bet below!
Also, we’re providing previews and expert betting tips for every game of the NBL26 season, so make sure to head over to our NBL Tips page regularly to keep up to date with all of our content.
And if you’re looking for a bookmaker to place your NBL bets on this season, look no further than Dabble – The official wagering partner of the NBL!
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United Prediction & Betting Tips: NBL26 Round 1
JackJumpers Looking to Bounce Back
The NBL26 season tips off with a blockbuster clash on Thursday night as the Tasmania JackJumpers host Melbourne United at MyState Bank Arena. This opening-round matchup is a rematch of the NBL24 Grand Final series and promises to be an intense, high-stakes affair. The JackJumpers, NBL24 champions, will be looking to make an early statement and return to their title-winning form after a disappointing NBL25 campaign where they missed the finals. Tasmania's roster features the formidable frontcourt pairing of Will Magnay and new recruit Josh Bannan, who joins the team after a standout stint with the Brisbane Bullets. The JackJumpers also moved on from Jordon Crawford, who was a key piece in their championship run.
United Ready to Compete Again
Melbourne United, on the other hand, is out for revenge after falling to the JackJumpers in NBL24 and then to the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL25 Grand Final. They've made one of the biggest moves of the off-season, signing star import Milton Doyle from the JackJumpers. Doyle's return to his old stomping ground, wearing the opposition colours, will be a storyline to watch all night. United also said goodbye to veteran guard Matthew Dellavedova, who signed with the Sydney Kings, and forward Jack White, who is now playing overseas. They will be relying on new additions like American import Tyson Walker and Next Star Dash Daniels to complement their existing core of captain Chris Goulding and reigning Best Defensive Player, Shea Ili.
Roth's Defence vs Vickerman's Offence
The JackJumpers, under the continued leadership of coach Scott Roth, will rely on their signature defensive intensity and a balanced scoring attack. Their pre-season performance, which saw them go undefeated in the NBL Blitz, suggests they are in solid form. Will Magnay's presence on the defensive end will be crucial in containing United's dynamic scoring options, especially with the departure of key players.
Who Wins? Here's Our JackJumpers vs United Tip
While the JackJumpers enter the game as the favourites, this is truly a 50/50 contest which makes United solid value at their current price. The narrative of revenge and the addition of former JackJumper Milton Doyle gives Melbourne United the impetus they need to cause an upset. The crowd in Hobart will undoubtedly be hostile, but if United can weather the early storm and rely on their championship core, they have the firepower to get the job done. Look for United to pull off the minor upset and start NBL26 on a high.
Melbourne United to Win
$2.30 (1 Unit)
JackJumpers vs United Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday, September 18th 2025
Time: 7:35pm AEST
Location: MyState Bank Arena, Hobart
Odds: JackJumpers $1.72 vs United $2.15
Line: JackJumpers -2.5
Points: 178.5
Where to Watch JackJumpers vs United
You can watch the JackJumpers vs United clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
Back In our JackJumpers vs United Tips at Dabble!
Not familiar with Dabble and want to learn more about what they offer? Check out our full Dabble review here, or by clicking the banner below.
