NBL1 North MVP locks down roster spot with JackJumpers

Image credit: Tasmania JackJumpers Media

The Tasmania JackJumpers have confirmed that Cairns Marlins’ Kody Stattmann has been converted to a full-time roster spot for the rest of the Hungry Jack’s NBL27 Season.

In Round 3, the 26-year-old was recruited by Scott Roth, alongside fellow NBL1 standout Biwali Bayles, to cover the backcourt losses of Ben Ayre and Anthony Drmic.

In an unbeaten regular season, Stattmann averaged 24.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.8 assists for the Marlins, winning the NBL1 North MVP.

Since signing for the JackJumpers, he has shown such offensive firepower in glimpses.

He has also shown defensive presence, notably taking an important late-game charge against Melbourne United in his Tasmania debut as they won narrowly at home.

JackJumpers Head Coach Scott Roth said the roster spot upgrade was a testament to Stattmann’s hard work in embracing the next-man-up mentality.

“Kody was basically on the street about 10 days ago, but now he’s playing in an NBL game for us and having an important contribution,” Roth said.

“It’s a great credit to these guys trying to change the label of what people may think about them.

“We’ll just keep reloading and keep finding players that want to do it the Jackies way.”

Stattmann’s next opportunity to contribute will be on Friday night against the Adelaide 36ers, live from 7.30pm AEDT on ESPN.