'We’re going to compete as hard as we can,': Barker backs Taipans against Breakers

In their return to the Far North, Taipans guard Lachlan Barker has backed his side to bring unrelenting energy again after an agonisingly close 105-101 overtime defeat to 36ers on Sunday. 

The Taipans return to the Convention Centre this Saturday afternoon for their first meeting of the season with the New Zealand Breakers.

It’s a matchup between two hungry sides desperate to reset their campaigns, with the Breakers sitting at 4-10 and the Snakes determined to turn gritty performances into wins.

Lachlan Barker:

"It’s a big game and we really want to get this one leading into the FIBA break."

"We’re going to compete as hard as we can, especially for a home game. We want to get one for the fans."

"The fans care a lot, it’s a community club, it’s great to be a part of it. It’s pretty special when they keep turning up even though we haven’t put some of our best performances in."

"The fans look after us, they show us a lot of support, a lot of love. We want to reciprocate that back to them by putting on a great performance whether that ends in a win or not. We have to make it enjoyable to watch for the fans."

Barker was recruited as a Nominated Injury Replacement player for Sam Waardenburg after he was struck down with an ankle injury on the brink of the NBL26 season.

After suiting up for four other NBL clubs — Sydney Kings, Melbourne United, South East Melbourne Phoenix and Tasmania JackJumpers — the North Tasmanian has become a key member of the rotation.

The defensive guard has performed admirable lockdown roles, particularly in the recent victory against the JackJumpers and his two starts against Illawarra Hawks and the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Lachlan Barker:

"I’m enjoying (the bigger role) but I’m here for whatever is needed by the team."

"Whether that is sitting on the bench or starting, playing big minutes or no minutes. Whatever I need to do to help the team. Obviously hasn’t ended up in wins. But if it helps a little bit then I’m happy."

The Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans host the New Zealand Breakers on Saturday 22 November in their final fixture before the FIBA break. Grab your tickets HERE.