Feature image via: In2Action Photography/Jodie Rawiri
NBL1 National Finalist and South conference star Dillon Stith has signed with the Cairns Taipans for NBL25.
The Casey Cavaliers star is currently averaging 19.6 points and eight rebounds for the club, having spent the three seasons between Frankston and Waverley.
He was a critical piece to the Blues’ National Finals run in 2022, leading them to the Championship Game before falling short to the Rockingham Flames.
Now localised, Stith has been on NBL radars once again and made a significant impression on head coach Adam Forde and the Taipans in a recent multi-day training camp.
“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,” Forde told the Cairns website.
“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.”
In all, 40 players took to the court trying to prove they deserved an NBL roster spot, with humourous NBL1 stars competing – but in that moment Forde found his man.
“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,” Forde said.
“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."
Stith obtained Australian Citizenship in 2023, meaning he'll be a local on the Taipans' roster. He last played as an import during his time with Melbourne United.
He has signed a two-year deal, with the second season as a club option.
The Cavaliers have a double header weekend, hosting the Diamond Valley Eagles on Saturday at 8:30pm AEST. Then on Sunday, they'll head over to Ballarat to take on the Miners at 2:00pm AEST.
Watch both games live via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.
