Tasmania smash WNBL membership record

The Tasmania Jewels are smashing records before they've even hit the court, announcing they've passed the all-time WNBL membership number on Wednesday.

The Jewels have officially notched 3,349 memberships, and it's still climbing, exceeding the 3,331 memberships record set by the former Melbourne Boomers in WNBL17.

"Tassie fans are the greatest," Jewels coach Claudia Brassard said.

"We're blown away with the support the Jewels are already receiving, and we haven't played a game yet.

"All along we've said we want to raise the bar across the league, and our fans are leading that charge.

"It's just over three weeks until we play our first game right here at home.

"It's a mix of nerves and excitement, but we can't wait to make every Tasmanian proud."

WNBL Chief Operations Officer Justin Nelson praised Tasmania basketball fans.

"What an achievement," Nelson said.

"The WNBL is a fans-first entertainment business, and we are thrilled to see the Jewels break the league's membership record ahead of their first game.

"To the people of Tasmania, we say thank you and welcome you to the WNBL family.

"You are now a part of history, and we know that together you will provide an incredible atmosphere for the Jewels.

"Pardon the pun, but the fans in Tasmania are truly the jewel in the crown and now the new leaders in the WNBL when it comes to membership. Awesome!"

The Jewels tip off the WNBL27 Season with their historic first game, playing Geelong at MyState Bank Arena on Thursday, October 15 from 7pm AEDT.

 >> FULL POWER, FEEL IT LIVE: WNBL27 TIPS OFF OCTOBER 15