Jack McVeigh Commits to Cairns

The Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans announce a major cornerstone for their 2026-27 campaign, with marquee man Jack McVeigh set to remain in orange after the Club and McVeigh both agreed to the mutual option on his contract.

McVeigh initially joined Cairns on a two-year agreement featuring a second-yearmutual option, arriving in Far North Queensland after a season in the NBA with the Houston Rockets and G League affiliate Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

The 203cm forward has since delivered exactly what Cairns fans hoped for: prolific scoring and match winning firepower.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be back next season,” McVeigh said.

“Every day I’m grateful I get to play basketball. I love coming out here and competing against the best and playing the game. That’s what I’ve wanted to do my whole life.

“I’m grateful for how welcomed my young family and I have been. Cairns quickly felt like home, and I can’t see myself leaving. The fans, the coaching staff, my teammates, the front office… everyone has made the experience special.

“Every game is another step forward, whether it’s for me individually as a player or collectively as a club. We’re trying to build for the future.”

Taipans CEO Mark Beecroft said he was thrilled to welcome back the Australian Boomer.

“Jack has been exceptional both on and off the court for us this season. His character is second to none,” Beecroft said.

“His experience and professionalism sets the standard and on court he lifts everyone around him. He’s the ultimate competitor and we’re excited to build a team around him.”

In his first season in Cairns, McVeigh has been the Taipans’ marquee weapon, leading the club in scoring (21.7 points per game) and rebounding (6.2 rebounds), while also ranking among the team’s top distributors (four assists per game).

When the moment has demanded something special, McVeigh has answered.

The signature night came when McVeigh lit up the Cairns Convention Centre for a career-high 47 points, dragging the Taipans to a stirring win over the New Zealand Breakers in Round 13. It was the second-highest individual score of the season.

McVeigh’s scoring explosions have not been a one off either. He also poured in 40 points in an overtime win against the Tasmania JackJumpers in Round 19.

He is one of two players (Bryce Cotton) to have multiple 40+ point scoring nights this season, along with scoring 20+ points, 15 times this season. Showcasing his consistency.

The 2024 Finals MVP is a rare scoring profile in the NBL, a forward with deep range who can punish closeouts, create offence late in the clock and dominate the post.

With McVeigh now locked in for next season, the Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans can turn their full attention to the next phase, continuing to shape a roster that complements their superstar forward.

One thing is already clear. With Jack McVeigh secured, the Taipans have the top end talent every team in the league is hunting. And for the Orange Army, it is a reason to get excited for next season – memberships are on sale now, with early bird prices available for a limited-time only: https://tickets.taipans.com