Roster heats up with Rob Edwards

The Cairns Taipans are excited to announce their second import for the 2024-25 season, signing American Rob Edwards on a one-year contract. The 196cm shooting guard joins the Taipans from the Delaware Blue Coats and brings a wide range of G League experience.

The Detroit native played college basketball at Cleveland State and Arizona State, going on to be selected 18^th overall by the Oklahoma City Blue in the 2021 G League Draft. 

Edwards began his pro career in the hub, where he averaged 12.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists, scoring double-digits in 9 of his 15 appearances and shooting the team-high 44 per cent from three.

His scoring output earned himself a spot on the Thunder’s NBA Summer League roster, as well as the affable nickname “the microwave” amongst basketball analysts and commentators.

Edwards signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder twice during his time with the Blue, appearing in one pre-season and two regular season NBA games with a 10-day contract.

At the end of the season, Edwards’ rights were acquired by the Wisconsin Herd in a trade, and he was later signed by the Milwaukee Bucks before being placed on waivers. He averaged 15.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists across 29 games. 

Edwards joined BG Göttingen in Germany’s Basketball Bundesliga for his first overseas contract in March 2023, returning to the States to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Charge, representing them in 16 G League Showcase Cup games.

 The 27-year-old was later traded to the Maine Celtics in December 2023, and added another team to his tally when he signed with the Delaware Blue Coats earlier this year.

Taipans Head Coach Adam Forde said that the G League journeyman caught his eye some time ago, but it wasn’t until this NBL off-season that he made a play to recruit him. 

“Rob first caught my attention in 2022 as this hard-nosed defender picking up full court in the G League. He got an NBA call up and then had another successful season with Wisconsin the following year.

“Back then, timing-wise it didn’t work for us, but it’s an ideal situation for both parties now. He’s 27-years-old and is about to reach some peak basketball in his career. I think we can provide a clear role and stability for him to showcase his talent.”

 Coach Forde said that Edwards’ versatility was appealing, but it was his attitude that solidified him as the right fit for the Taipans.

 “It always catches your attention when guys are picking up full court defensively in G League. He’s super-efficient offensively too. Doesn’t waste time getting to his spots. 

“He can score but also moves the ball for better opportunities. He attacks the rim with purpose and shown that he can create for others as a secondary ball handler,” he said. 

“Rob comes with glowing reviews from his previous clubs about being a high character, hardworking, and tough competitor. He embodies the gritty attitude we emphasise and will be a welcomed addition to the team."

The Taipans have one import spot and two local (non-restricted) positions remaining to fill.

2024-25 TAIPANS ROSTER

Jonah Antonio
Taran Armstrong
Rob Edwards*
AK Gak
Kyrin Galloway
Tanner Groves*
Jackson Makoi
Sam Waardenburg

*import