The Cairns Taipans rallied from a nine-point deficit in the third quarter to secure an 86-84 victory over the New Zealand Breakers in a closely contested game. The match featured a decisive second-half surge by the Taipans, who overcome early shooting struggles to clinch the win.

Cairns began the game with difficulties beyond the arc, converting only four of 14 three-point attempts in the first half. However, the third quarter saw a turnaround led by debutant Jaylin Galloway, along with Jack McVeigh and sharpshooter Reyne Smith, who combined to make five of 10 shots from three-point range. Late in the contest, crucial baskets from Smith and Jaylon Brown—who hit a three-pointer after missing his first eight shots—helped extend the Taipans’ lead.

The Breakers were largely fueled by strong performances from their frontcourt players, including Sam Mennenga and Canadian prospect Charles Bediako, who frequently found success on offense throughout the game. Despite bolstering their roster with the addition of big men Malique Lewis, Keanu Pinder, and Jonah Bolden during the off-season, Cairns still struggled at times to contain opposing post players and limit their influence on the offensive glass.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright returned to the Taipans’ lineup for this game but had a noticeably reduced impact compared to usual. Nevertheless, he made some important plays in the closing stages, including a key three-pointer following a classic "shooter’s roll" maneuver. Cairns’ defense was able to keep Jackson-Cartwright largely in check despite his efforts.

In the final moments, the Breakers had a last opportunity to change the outcome. A turnover by Galloway led to a fast break chance with fewer than 10 seconds remaining, but New Zealand was unable to produce a clean shot to either tie or take the lead. Cairns held on for the two-point win, marking a hard-fought victory in an evenly matched contest.