Taipans reward Dillon Stith with roster spot

The Cairns Taipans announce the local signing of American-Australian Dillon Stith on a two-year deal (second year club option) for his first full playing contract in the NBL, after spending most of his career in NBL1 competitions and Melbourne’s Big V.

Currently suiting up in the NBL1 South, the 32-year-old took time between games to make the trip to Far North Queensland for the Taipans’ first “open gym” at Cairns Basketball, participating in physical testing, intense workouts and trial scrimmages.

The 200cm power forward was a clear standout throughout the gruelling eight-hour day, and Taipans Head Coach Adam Forde said there was one specific moment that earned him a roster position.

“Dillon came down to our open trial and performed well in the testing and competed hard in the scrimmages.

“But the moment that stood out for me was when he rotated from the help side to block a shot and save the defence from what would have been an easy layup,” explained Forde.

“While the block in itself isn’t uncommon, the fact he did it after being on court for eight long hours showed commitment and determination.

“That’s what we were looking for on the day - guys who don’t quit on the possession, no matter how physically exhausted and mentally drained they were.”

Originally from Virginia, Stith has been a stalwart of the NBL1 and Big V since he graduated from Saint Vincent College in 2014.

He has suited up for the Melbourne Tigers, McKinnon Cougars, Frankston Blues, Waverley Falcons and most recently, the Casey Cavaliers where he is averaging 19.6 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game.

Stith’s first experience in the NBL was when he joined Melbourne United to play in their NBA pre-season game against Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017.

He returned to United in 2019 as an injury replacement player for Casey Prather, again travelling with the team to play in another NBA pre-season trip.

Stith remained in the line-up until December that year and appeared in eight games, leaving a lasting impression during his short stint.

“Dillon has always been a well-known commodity in Australia because of his time with United and in the NBL1. So, it wasn’t surprising when doing the call around on him that everyone gave such glowing endorsements about his character and work ethic,” said Forde.

“Dillon is a basketball lifer. He continues to work on his game, which has showed up in his shooting, especially this season hitting 40 per cent from three.

“He’ll be a high energy guy, hard worker, and no doubt contribute to the community and club in so many meaningful ways."

The Taipans have two remaining positions available: one import (restricted) and one local (non-restricted) for the 2024-25 NBL season.

2024-25 TAIPANS ROSTER
Jonah Antonio
Taran Armstrong 
Rob Edwards*
AK Gak
Kyrin Galloway
Tanner Groves*
Jackson Makoi
Sam Waardenburg
Dillon Stith

*import