King scores game-high 21 points in first game

Returning for their first official game after an extended off-season, the CQUniversity Cairns Taipans fell short against Melbourne United 81-97 on New Year’s Eve.

In what was their first game at the Cairns Pop-up Arena, the team were adjusting to their new environment as Taipans’ new recruit Mojave King was a shining light with the game-high 21 points in just 20 minutes.

Entering the game, it was clear both sides needed to shake off some off-season rust, as both teams struggled to put quick points on the board. Majok Deng and Kouat Noi were the only two Taipans to register points in the early minutes of the game and kept United at bay.

Imports Cameron Oliver and Scott Machado looked like they had never left, with Machado finding Oliver for his signature dunk to bring the packed NYE crowd to their feet and putting pressure on Melbourne to respond.

Mojave King also looked to help build the pressure, scoring his first bucket after subbing into the action just 30 seconds earlier. The 18-year-old looked comfortable and was able to keep the points flowing freely and led the Taipans to a 24-18 lead at the first break.

The Taipans were faced with a scoring drought of five minutes in the second, only to be broken by a brilliant steal and fast-break dunk by Noi, who finished with 17 points and three rebounds. Melbourne shot the ball well at 52 per cent, with Chris Goulding top-scoring for the visitors with 17 points also.

Trailing 37-40 at half-time, Machado led the Taipans fightback but United’s consistent pressure and scoring endured to build their lead to 57-71 by the third break, despite a notable 11 points and four rebounds from Oliver and seven points and six assists from Machado.

Jordan Ngatai was also impressive in his first game in orange, with seven points, two rebounds and two assists while Deng also finished with six points and six boards.

Five of United players scored double digits and managed another 26 points in the final term to run away with the 97-81 win.

The Taipans play their next open pre-season game against the Adelaide 36ers on Saturday 9 January at the Cairns Pop-up Arena. Tip-off 6:00pm, click here for tickets. 

MELBOURNE UNITED 97 (Goulding 17, Ili 15, McCarron 14) 
CAIRNS TAIPANS 81 (King 21, Noi 17, Oliver 11)

BOX SCORE