Marshall’s last-second heroics lift JackJumpers to stunning comeback win

The Tasmania JackJumpers pulled off one of the great escapes of NBL26, storming back from 16 points down in the final quarter to shock the Sydney Kings 90–89 in front of a stunned crowd on Sunday night.

Nick Marshall was the unlikely hero, scoring the game-winning layup with just seconds remaining as the JackJumpers closed the contest on a 12–0 run. The play capped a breathtaking finish that showcased the fight and belief that’s come to define Tasmania since entering the league.

The Kings had looked home after Jaylin Galloway drilled a three to open the fourth quarter, pushing Sydney’s lead to 16 as he produced his best performance of the season with 20 points on 7-of-10 shooting. But Tassie refused to quit.

Even after losing leading scorer Bryce Hamilton to fouls, the JackJumpers tightened up defensively and surged behind Will Magnay’s interior dominance. Magnay’s power inside sparked the run, before the drama peaked in the final seconds.

Kouat Noi missed two free throws that could have sealed it for Sydney, and though the Kings briefly regained possession, Xavier Cooks couldn’t find an inbounds target. Magnay tipped the ball loose, and Marshall pounced — driving hard to the rim for the winner as the buzzer sounded.

Marshall finished with 14 points and four rebounds, while Hamilton (18 points) and Josh Bannan (18 points, nine rebounds) led the scoring for Tasmania. Magnay was huge in crunch time with 15 points and several key defensive stops.

For Sydney, Kendric Davis was superb in defeat with 22 points, six rebounds and five assists, while Galloway’s breakout game and Noi’s 12 points were overshadowed by those costly final moments. Tim Soares added 13 points and five rebounds.

The Kings dominated the middle quarters — outscoring Tasmania 54–35 across the second and third — and looked poised for a comfortable win. But when the pressure mounted, the JackJumpers’ composure held firm. Their attack on the paint early and unrelenting hustle late proved decisive.

From down 84–68 with four minutes left, Tasmania clawed all the way back, turning desperation into dominance.

The JackJumpers now return home to host the Perth Wildcats in an Ignite Cup showdown on Wednesday, while the Kings will look to regroup when they visit Brisbane to face the Bullets on Saturday night.

Final score: Tasmania JackJumpers 90 defeated Sydney Kings 89.