Statement on Cameron Oliver

The CQUniversity Cairns Taipans have waived Cameron Oliver for the remainder of the season on compassionate grounds, to enable him to return home to the United States for family reasons.

Oliver’s wife is currently expecting their third child, and due to complications with the pregnancy, he has had to urgently leave to provide support to his young family.

Oliver remains on his two-year contract with the club and will return to the Taipans for the 2021-22 NBL season, expected to begin in October.

In a message to Taipans fans, Oliver opened up about his reasons for leaving and thanked the club and his teammates for their understanding:

“My wife is going through some health complications with the pregnancy. I’m left with no choice but to go back home and help my family through these crucial times, probably the next two, three months – until she actually delivers the baby.

“I talked to the team about it, the front office, and the staff. Everyone supports me putting my family first. I hate to leave my guys during this tough situation, it’s a real challenge for me. It’s something I have to do right now.”

Taipans President Troy Stone said that Oliver has the club’s full support and agreed with this decision:

“We completely understand why Cam has to return home and really sympathise with their situation. It’s hard for him to leave during the season and we know our fans will be disappointed, but of course, family comes first, and we can all relate to that.

“We hope that everything goes as smoothly as possible for Cam and Alecia over the next few months, and we can’t wait for them to return to Cairns next season with King, Ka’Mera and their new addition.

Taipans HQ wish the very best for the Oliver family and will be thinking of them during this difficult time.