Taipans release Sam Mennenga

The CQUniversity Cairns Taipans have agreed to the mutual release of Sam Mennenga ahead of the 2024-25 NBL season, releasing him from the second year of his first professional contract.
 
The New Zealand native decided to forgo his senior year at Davidson College in favour of signing a two-year deal with the Taipans under Head Coach Adam Forde last April.  
 
The 206cm forward went on to average 6.9 points and 3.9 rebounds across 27 games in his NBL debut and requested the release to enable him to return home.
 
Taipans CEO Mark Beecroft said he was pleased that Cairns lured Mennenga back down under and could afford him with his first professional opportunity. 
 
“The Club was glad to offer a talent like Sam his first break in the NBL. We will continue to provide local players a launchpad into this league," he said. 
 
“Sam is an outstanding young man. We thank him for his professionalism and contributions, and hope he becomes another Cairns success story.” 
 
The 22-year-old expressed his gratitude for his time in Far North Queensland. 
 
“The Taipans were an outstanding initiation into the NBL and gave me a great starting point for my professional basketball career going forward. 
 
“I would like to thank the organisation and the coaching staff for everything they have done for me over the past 12 months,” said Mennenga. 
 
“Of course, I also thank the fans. The Orange Army welcomed me with open arms, and it was a cool experience.”