Historic Expansion for Women's Basketball
The Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) has officially welcomed the Tasmania Jewels as its ninth team, with the new franchise set to make its debut in the 2026/27 season. The brand reveal for the Tasmania Jewels took place on December 1, 2025, following the awarding of the ninth WNBL license to Tasmania in August 2025. This expansion marks a significant milestone for women's basketball in Australia, bringing a Tasmanian team back to the national stage for the first time since the Hobart Islanders in 1996.
Team Identity and Leadership
The Tasmania Jewels will be based in Hobart, Tasmania, and will operate as the female counterpart to the highly successful NBL team, the Tasmania JackJumpers. The team's identity draws inspiration from Tasmania's rich basketball heritage and its natural wilderness, featuring a motif linked to the queen ant, mirroring the JackJumpers' ant theme. The team colors include Forrest green, Mandible yellow, and a new eucalyptus green accent.
Key figures leading this new venture include WNBL CEO Jennie Sager, who expressed excitement about the league's rising momentum and commitment to creating more opportunities. Christine Finnegan serves as the CEO for both the Tasmania Jewels and the Tasmania JackJumpers, highlighting the integrated approach to basketball development in the state. Former WNBA and WNBL player Kayla Steindl has been appointed as the Assistant General Manager, Basketball, for the Tasmania Jewels. The team is majority-owned by Altor Capital, through Tasmania Basketball Pty Ltd.
Facilities and Community Impact
The Tasmania Jewels are expected to play their home games across multiple venues, including MyState Bank Arena in Hobart, as well as the Silverdome and Devonport Oval Sports Complex in Northern and North-Western Tasmania. The Tasmanian Liberal Government has pledged support for the team, including investments in facility upgrades. The expansion is anticipated to create 10 new roster spots for players and additional career opportunities for coaches and support staff. St Lukes, a not-for-profit organization, has been announced as the team's Foundation Principal Partner.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the Tasmania Jewels is seen as a significant step in strengthening Tasmania's rapidly expanding basketball landscape and providing an inspirational pathway for young female athletes. The club has already launched a 'Got the W' membership campaign, inviting community engagement as preparations build towards their historic debut season.
7 Comments
Katchuka
Tasmania back in the WNBL! This is fantastic for the state and the league.
Loubianka
Bringing national basketball back to Tasmania is a huge win for the community and for aspiring athletes, which is commendable. However, playing home games across multiple venues could make it challenging to build a consistent home-court advantage and strong local support in any single location.
KittyKat
Another team, another financial risk. Hope this one actually lasts.
Katchuka
Playing across multiple venues? Sounds like a logistical mess, not a strong home base.
anubis
This expansion creates so many new opportunities. Huge step forward for female athletes!
paracelsus
The promise of 10 new roster spots is excellent for player development and careers, yet the article doesn't detail how they plan to ensure these spots are filled with competitive talent across the league. Ensuring high-level play will be crucial for the WNBL's overall quality.
dedus mopedus
Finally! A long-overdue return for national basketball in Tasmania. Can't wait!