Brown battles back in big way

Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans point guard Jaylon Brown says hard work, resilience and self-belief were the keys behind his impressive response in Thursday night's 107-85 victory over the Brisbane Bullets.

After a tough outing against New Zealand last round, where he managed just one field goal, Brown bounced back in style with 19 points, five assists and three rebounds to help guide the Taipans to their fifth win in six games.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

Brown admitted his previous performance weighed heavily on him, but rather than dwell on it, he returned to what he knows best.

"I'm a passionate person when I play. My family call me a perfectionist sometimes," Brown said.

"You guys might not see it, but I might beat myself up after a game like that.

"But I go back into the gym, I put in the work, focus on the things I can control, and come out the next game ready to play my game."

The performance was another example of Brown's determination to lead from the front as the Taipans continue to build momentum throughout the 2026-27 season.

BOLDEN’S HUGE IMPACT

Brown was also quick to praise teammate Jonah Bolden, who produced a commanding display against the Bullets with a game-high 13 rebounds.

The Cairns point guard said Bolden's energy and presence have become a crucial part of the team's success.

"He's a really big part of our team. He brings a certain level of energy that we need," Brown said.

"Every game he comes out and proves it. He's making plays on both ends of the floor and doing a great job.

"I love playing with him. He's a great teammate and a great player."

TAIPANS’ TRUE IDENTITY

The Taipans' turnaround has been stunning since a difficult road loss to the New Zealand Breakers. A win over Melbourne United at John Cain Arena, setting the tone five wins in the past six matches.

"After that New Zealand game, we had a discussion as a group," Brown said.

"We just had to be ourselves and trust who we are as a team.

"We know what we're looking for out on the floor. We came back to practice, got back to work, and committed to sticking to what makes us successful for the rest of the season."

That belief has allowed the Taipans to stay composed during challenging periods of games; confident they can turn momentum back in their favour.

"We're doing a good job of reminding ourselves who we are," Brown said.

"It doesn't matter if we have a tough stretch because we know we can respond in the next minute, the next quarter, whenever it's needed."

BIG TEST AWAITS

While the recent run has boosted confidence around the group, Brown says the focus remains on continual improvement.

"I think we're improving every day," he said.

"Our guys are taking every day seriously and focusing on the little things. We're seeing the results of the work we're putting in, and we're going to keep getting better."

The next challenge comes on Saturday night when the Taipans host Melbourne United at the Cairns Convention Centre in a blockbuster home clash.

Don't miss your chance to back the Taipans as they look to continue their winning form. Get your tickets HERE to be part of the action