Former teammates a non-factor in JackJumpers clash

The Perth Wildcats will be up against some familiar faces on Sunday when the Tasmania JackJumpers visit Perth for the first time.

The JackJumpers lineup features former Wildcats Clint Steindl, Will Magnay and Jarred Bairstow, while they are coached by former Wildcats assistant coaches Scott Roth and Jacob Chance.

However, Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff said those factors won’t come into play.

“At the end of the day, we’re both professional teams and we have a basketball game to prepare for,” he said.

“Obviously there’s some familiar faces on the court and in the coaching staff as well but I don’t think that changes too much.

“We’re going to prepare and try to get another win before we go on the road.”

The two sides met in the pre-season, with the Widlcats coming away with a comfortable 98-68 win at the NBL Blitz.

Tasmania have played three games so far, with their one win coming against the Adelaide 36ers in their first-ever game.

One of their best has been guard Josh Magette who averages 16.3 points and 6.3 assists per game.

On Sunday, both Perth and Tasmania will wear black strips on their uniforms to honour the children who lost their lives in Thursday’s Devonport tragedy.

Tip-off is at 2.30pm.

Tickets available here.