JackJumpers hope Hummer has eye of Tigers

• 2013 Ivy League Men's Basketball Player of the Year
• Second all-time leading scorer for Princeton Tigers
• Debuted for Azerbaijan national basketball team in 2024

The 8-8 Tasmania JackJumpers have signed 34-year-old American veteran Ian Hummer for the remainder of the NBL25 season.

Hummer comes in from Osaka Evessa in Japan's B.League, averaging 7.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 steals across 60 games.

He fills the roster spot left vacant by Craig Sword.

Key details

Name: Ian MacDonald Hummer
‍Age: 34
‍Team(s): Tasmania JackJumpers (current), various European and Asian clubs
‍Position: Forward Size: 6'7" (2.01 m)

The 34-year-old was a standout collegiate player at Princeton. He finished his collegiate career in second place on the university's all-time scoring list, amassing 1,625 points.

The move comes after Sword was released by JackJumpers citing a “reassessment of our roster needs, prompted by the gap left in the team due to Jack McVeigh's absence”.

"We’re pleased to welcome Ian Hummer to the team," coach Scott Roth said.

"He’s a seasoned player who will bring versatility, experience and toughness to our group as we continue to build toward our goals."

Roth assured the decision was not related to Sword's performance.

"We’re grateful for Craig’s contributions to the team during his time with us. These decisions are never easy, but we believe this move is in the best interest of the organisation. We wish him nothing but success in his next chapter," Roth said.

"The decision to adjust our roster is not a reflection of any shortcoming in Craig Sword’s performance or character, he has been an exemplary teammate, contributing tirelessly both on and off the court."

Ian Hummer's playing style is characterised by his versatility and adaptability. At 6'7", he possesses the size to be a dominant force in the paint, yet his skill set extends traditional post play. Hummer's game has evolved significantly since his college days, where he was primarily a back-to-the-basket player. His development of a face-up game and perimeter skills has made him a multifaceted threat on the court.

Hummer leverages his strength and footwork to overpower smaller defenders in the post, while also displaying the agility to drive past larger opponents. His basketball IQ, honed through years of international experience, allows him to read defences effectively and make smart decisions with the ball. Hummer's ability to stretch the floor with improved outside shooting adds another dimension to his offensive arsenal, making him a challenging matchup for opponents.

Ian Hummer's Career

His collegiate career at Princeton was nothing short of stellar. As the 2013 Ivy League Men's Basketball Player of the Year, Hummer left an indelible mark on the program, finishing as the second all-time leading scorer behind only NBA legend Bill Bradley. His leadership guided the Tigers to three postseason tournament appearances and the 2010-11 Ivy League Championship.

Following his impressive college career, Hummer embarked on a global basketball odyssey. His professional journey took him across Europe and Asia, with stints in Germany, Finland, Turkey, Russia, France (Monaco), Greece, and Japan.

This transition to the NBL marks a new chapter in his career, bringing his wealth of international experience to one of the most competitive leagues outside of the NBA.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing developments in Hummer's career came in 2024 when he debuted for the Azerbaijan men's national basketball team.

Throughout his professional career, Hummer has consistently demonstrated the ability to impact games in multiple ways. His versatility, honed through years of playing in different systems and cultures, has made him a valuable asset to every team he's been a part of. In the NBL, Hummer's experience and skill set should to be a solid fit for the league's fast-paced, physical style of play.

Five Fast Facts

1. Hummer was named The Washington Post Boys Basketball Player of the Year in 2009 while at Gonzaga College High School.
2. He holds the Ivy League record for most single-season and career Player of the Week Awards.
3. Hummer earned Associated Press 2013 All-American honourable mention recognition.
4. His global basketball career has spanned seven countries across three continents.
5. In 2024, Hummer became one of the few American-born players to represent Azerbaijan in international competition.

Career Highlights Timeline

2009: Named The Washington Post Boys Basketball Player of the Year
‍2010: Helps lead Princeton to the Ivy League Championship
‍2013: Wins Ivy League Men's Basketball Player of the Year award
‍2013: Graduates from Princeton as the second all-time leading scorer
‍2013-2023: Plays professionally in various European and Asian leagues
‍2024: Signs with Tasmania JackJumpers in the NBL
‍2024: Debuts for the Azerbaijan national basketball team