DESPITE currently being in the midst of a strong NBL1 campaign, eye-catching wing Junior Madut has found himself a new NBL team ahead of the upcoming season.

After delivering a solid campaign in limited minutes with the SEM Phoenix, Madut will be making the move further south to join the Tasmania JackJumpers for the 2023/24 season, eager for a boost in court time.

The JackJumpers lost one of their emerging talents in Isaac White at the start of free agency, but the addition of Madut softens the blow in some way. The wing has signed a two-year deal with the team.

For the Phoenix, Madut averaged 4.0 points and 2.3 rebounds across 28 games, but showed glimpses of the player he can become if given the opportunity.

In just his second game at NBL level, Madut led from the front to produce a game-high 21 points on 9/15 shooting from the field. It showed that the rookie could carry an offence if given the opportunity, and although he did not reach these heights again, he was often sidelined for the likes of Mitch Creek, who deservingly was named the team’s first option.

Suiting up for the Norths Bears in the NBL1 competition is where he has recently been making headlines. Earlier this year, Madut exploded for 50 points in a captivating display of scoring. It furthered his reputation as an underrated scorer, and showed what he is truly capable of.

He also has experience at international level, having represented South Sudan in the past, and he also has a stint with the University of Hawaii under his belt.

The JackJumpers must be confident in Madut’s untapped potential, and he should thrive under the guidance of highly touted coach Scott Roth.

Speaking after the signing, Madut expressed his excitement to join the competition’s newest side and continue his individual journey.

“I feel like my strengths will really complement the guys already there and the strong roster they’re putting together,” Madut said.

“It feels like they’re building something really special, and I’m excited to immerse myself in the program and be part of that.

“Basketball has taken me to some incredible places which I’m really grateful for, and it’s a privilege to continue my journey with Tasmania and continue to improve myself as a person and as a player.”