This Saturday, the Cairns Taipans will host the New Zealand Breakers at the Cairns Convention Centre in a pivotal matchup as both teams look to turn their fortunes around in the Hungry Jack’s NBL Season. Scheduled to tip-off at 5:30 PM AEDT, the game is critical for both sides, who are eager to gain momentum as the league heads into the upcoming FIBA break.
Currently, the Taipans find themselves at the bottom of the NBL standings, closely followed by the Breakers. Each victory is crucial for both teams’ aspirations of making the Finals this season. New Zealand comes in with a notable advantage, having won their last six encounters against Cairns. Despite the home court, the Taipans have struggled this season, posting a dismal 1-7 record on their home floor.
One of the key players to watch for Cairns is Jack McVeigh, who recently hit a career milestone by scoring 39 points in an overtime loss to the Adelaide 36ers. McVeigh has been instrumental for the Taipans, averaging 18.8 points per game and accounting for nearly 25% of the team’s scoring. With the team averaging the lowest points per game in the league at 80.4, McVeigh’s performance will be critical if Cairns hopes to overcome New Zealand.
Taipans coach Adam Forde expressed admiration for the Breakers, particularly praising the balanced scoring and offensive threats of players like Sam Mennenga, known for his three-point shooting, and Parker Jackson-Cartwright, recognized as one of the top point guards in the league. Forde emphasized the need for his players to remain focused throughout the game, particularly given the team’s struggles at home.
On the other side, Breakers coach Petteri Koponen highlighted the importance of maintaining consistency during the game. He noted that small moments often determine the outcome and reiterated that every contest allows an opportunity to reassess and refine strategies.
However, the Taipans will be without several crucial players due to injuries. Alex Higgins-Titsha is out for the season with a wrist injury, while Kody Stattmann, Kyle Adnam, Reyne Smith, and Sam Waardenburg are all expected to miss the game due to various issues. In contrast, New Zealand has reported no injuries, providing them with a deeper and more prepared roster.
As anticipation grows for this exciting showdown, fans can catch the live action on ESPN or follow along for live scores and highlights through the upgraded NBL App. This match could be a turning point for either team, and with both sides eager for a win, basketball enthusiasts are in for an enthralling contest.