Ben Ayre signs with Cairns Marlins

The Ground Cairns Marlins have secured the signature of Taipans player Ben Ayre, following a breakout campaign in the NBL, making records in his very short stint.

Ayre joined the Taipans as a training player for the 2021-22 season and was elevated to the full-time roster earlier this month as an injury replacement player.

Last week, he became just the second player in Taipans club history to register 20 points and 10 assists in a game. Following the remarkable performance, he temporarily led the NBL in three-point shooting at 42.1 per cent.

Originally from Victoria, Ayre played with the Knox Raiders in the NBL1 South last year (alongside Taipans teammate Bul Kuol) and averaged 12 points, 3.5 assists and 2.5 rebounds across 11 games.

Marlins Head Coach and Taipans assistant Kerry Williams said that Ayre impressed across the season and was not surprised at his recent performances.

“You can definitely see that Ben has something about him, he was just waiting for his opportunity and that’s why the Taipans kept him around as a training player. We’ve seen him put in the work – first in the gym, last to leave,” said Williams.

“He’s an intelligent player and is very capable of playing at the NBL level. His stats in Melbourne were just a bonus – he can shoot the ball well and he’s got that point guard vision.

“Ben really clicked with [Taipans guard] Tahjere McCall this year, they are cut from the same cloth in their ambition to win. I think he’s learned a lot over the past few months, and I’m really excited for him to be part of the Marlins. He’ll join us a leader and set the tone for the group.”

The 26-year-old has also suited up for the Nunawading Spectres, Bendigo Braves, and the Adelaide 36ers as a development player.

Ayre joins an impressive squad of local Marlins talent including Jimmy Mitchell, Deba George, Curt Ahwang and Kane Runnalls, with more signings to come.

The NBL1 North season begins in Cairns on Saturday 30 April at the Fishtank hosting the Ipswich Force from 6:00pm. The Taipans conclude their season tonight at the Cairns Convention Centre, 8:00pm. Click HERE for tickets.