Game Preview: Bullets v Taipans

Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans have the chance to further strengthen their position in the NBL standings when they take on the Brisbane Bullets on Thursday night.

Fresh from a heart-stopping 86-84 victory over the New Zealand Breakers at Cairns Convention Centre, the Taipans head into Round 7 full of confidence after winning four of their last five games.

While momentum is building, Head Coach Adam Forde knows there's no room for complacency against a Brisbane side coming off an impressive road win over the Illawarra Hawks.

“We want to just keep stacking days and finding ways to win,” Forde said.

“Whether we shoot 50 per cent from three and everyone is feeling good, or we find a way to grind one out, it's about getting the result.

“We'll rest up and prepare for a tough Brisbane team in Brisbane.”

One of Cairns' biggest weapons continues to be its long-range shooting. The Taipans lead the league in three-pointers made, averaging 12.2 per game, and have won their last five matches when knocking down 10 or more triples.

The return of Jaylin Galloway couldn't have come at a better time.

In his first game in orange, Galloway made an immediate statement against the Breakers, helping keep the Taipans in the contest early before finishing with a career-high six assists.

His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor adds another dimension to Cairns' offence, while his composure and leadership have already impressed Forde.

“He's really comfortable in every environment, whether it's practice or a high-pressure game,” Forde said.

“For a young man to have that mindset and character, it's what you look for in leaders. His ability to perform under pressure is outstanding.”

With his athleticism, versatility and experience at the highest level, Galloway shapes as a key figure heading into Thursday night's clash.

The matchup between the two frontcourts looms as one of the night's biggest storylines.

Jonah Bolden has been a revelation for the Taipans this season, providing impact on both ends of the floor. The former NBA forward is shooting an outstanding 50 per cent from beyond the arc while averaging 8.3 rebounds per game, placing him among the league's best rebounders.

Alongside Keanu Pinder, who ranks among the NBL leaders in steals, Cairns boasts one of the competition's most versatile big-man combinations.

Their challenge will be slowing down Bullets centre Tyrell Harrison, who dominated when the two teams last met in Round 4. Harrison produced 23 points and 18 rebounds despite Brisbane falling to the Taipans in Far North Queensland.

If Cairns can limit Harrison's influence, they'll take a significant step towards securing another crucial road win.

Brisbane has been hit hard by injuries in recent weeks, but the Bullets continue to find answers.

Star guard Arnus Velicka has been sidelined since the Round 4 loss to Cairns, with former NBA playmaker Raul Neto brought in as his replacement. After settling into his first appearance, Neto showed his class in Brisbane's win over the Hawks and presents a fresh challenge for the Taipans' defence.

The Bullets have also welcomed familiar face Mawot Mag, who spent last season in Cairns for his rookie campaign. Mag has featured in Brisbane's past three games and adds defensive pressure and energy to the rotation.

With both teams carrying confidence into the contest, Thursday night's Queensland derby shapes as another important test for a Taipans side determined to keep climbing the ladder and prove they're genuine contenders in 2026-27.