Taipans Snap Losing Streak with Gutsy Win in Launceston

The Cairns Taipans have finally broken through, snapping a seven-game losing streak with a gritty 75–69 win over the Tasmania JackJumpers at The Silverdome on Saturday night.

It was a much-needed dose of relief for Adam Forde’s men, who came into the game battered by blowout losses but rediscovered their trademark fight to secure just their third victory of NBL26.

Former JackJumper Jack McVeigh led the charge against his old club, scoring 23 points and drilling clutch baskets in the final term to silence the Launceston crowd. Andrew Andrews had his best game in orange, finishing with 27 points on 4-of-4 from deep, while Admiral Schofield added 18 points and six rebounds.

The trio combined for 68 of Cairns’ 75 points in a performance built on toughness, discipline, and defence. Despite being outrebounded 48–34 and taking just three free throws across the first three quarters, the Taipans turned the ball over only three times all game — and that composure proved decisive.

Tasmania, who slipped to 5–5, clawed back from a 40–31 halftime deficit to level scores at 58–58 midway through the fourth quarter. But Cairns steadied through McVeigh’s shot-making and Andrews’ cool execution down the stretch, closing on a 7–0 run to seal the road win.

Bryce Hamilton top-scored for the JackJumpers with 21 points, six rebounds, and six assists, while captain Will Magnay posted 12 points and 10 boards in his return. Josh Bannan also had a double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds), but Tasmania’s shooting woes continued — hitting just 38 per cent from the field and 4-of-25 from three-point range.

Cairns forward Reyne Smith exited in the second quarter with a foot injury, but the Taipans’ defensive focus never wavered.

The loss extends Tasmania’s frustrating record in Launceston to just two wins from nine games at their second home, while Cairns finally showed the grit and composure that’s been missing during their slide.

The JackJumpers stay in Launceston to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday, while the Taipans return home to host the Illawarra Hawks on Friday night.

Final score: Cairns Taipans 75 defeated Tasmania JackJumpers 69.