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Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks NBL Betting Tips - Hawks to bow out while covering

ryan-tucker
Ryan Tucker
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Last updated: Tue 17 Feb 2026 08:59
The Tasmania JackJumpers have clinched their place in the finals despite a recent 120-104 loss to SE Melbourne Phoenix. Illawarra Hawks, on the other hand, are eliminated before the playoffs but are expected to make a statement in their final game. The Hawks are seen as underdogs, yet they have won their last two matches against the JackJumpers. With standout player JaVale McGee back in the lineup, the Hawks could cover the game line and make a notable end to their season.
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Ryan Tucker 17 Feb 2026
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  • Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks expert predictions for Wednesday’s Round 22 NBL matchup
  • JackJumpers secure finals spot despite loss
  • Hawks eliminated but to make a strong finish with JaVale McGee a key player
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illawarra hawks
Illawarra Hawks to end regular season on a high (Getty Images)

Tasmania JackJumpers vs Illawarra Hawks Preview


Reigning champions the Hawks are the underdogs in this final round clash, but are tipped to cover the short line with nothing riding on the game. Tasmania are into the finals, while Illawarra are eliminated - but expect the Hawks to end with a statement.

  • Illawarra have won 2 straight v JackJumpers including the most recent matchup in Tasmania.
  • The Hawks have not lost a 1st qtr to Tasmania in the last 3 games and have won 3 of their last 5 first quarter lines.
  • JaVale McGee has had 23 pts, 16 pts and 32 pts vs Tasmania in three matchups this season.
  • JaVale McGee is 1st among qualified players for Points per 36 mins this season at 27.9.

Tasmania JackJumpers Secure Finals Spot


The JackJumpers secured their finals spot last weekend despite losing 120-104 to SE Melbourne Phoenix. 

Tasmania had one of their highest scoring opening quarters, racking up 34 pts to lead by 2 pts at the first break.

The next two quarters were not good as SEM scored a combined 70 pts to take and extend the lead to 23 pts. Very uncommon for the Tasmania defence to allow so many points in such a short frame.

Majok Deng has been a standout for Tassie in the last third of the season, he scored 36 pts and had 9 rebounds in the loss. He is averaging 22.7 pts across his last 4 games. 

Illawarra Hawks Eliminated Before Playoffs


Illawarra’s inconsistent form continued last weekend. A 120-94 loss to Sydney was followed by a 100-91 win over Melbourne, a game they were tipped to lose by a margin.

JaVale McGee returned from injury to post 22 pts, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks. 

Interestingly, Illawarra had just 67 FGA, on the lower end of the pace scale to what they are accustomed to. But a 37% rate from deep helped immensely despite giving up 18 turnovers to United.

Verdict

Take Illawarra to cover the game line of +1.5 as the underdog as well as the first quarter line of +0.5. Once player props are released, take a look at JaVale McGee 20+ points.

Best Bet1: Illawarra +1.5 Line @7/8 at Hollywood bets - 2 Units
Best Bet2: Illawarra +0.5 1st Qtr Line @7/8 at bet365 - 3 Units
Best Bet3: J McGee 20+ Points @11/9 at Star Sports - 1 Unit
Best Bet4: J McGee over 17.5 Points @3/4 at Hollywood bets - 1 Unit
Illawarra +1.5
Line
@7/8 - 2 Units
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Illawarra +0.5
1st Qtr Line
@7/8 - 3 Units
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Bet at bet365
J McGee 20+
Points
@11/9 - 1 Unit
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Bet at Star Sports
J McGee over 17.5
Points
@3/4 - 1 Unit
£30 Free Bet
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