Another Young Star Heads to Forde Talent Factory

The Cairns Taipans have signed one of Australia’s most exciting collegiate prospects to a two-year deal, with Taran Armstrong forgoing his remaining college eligibility in favour of turning professional.

Armstrong, 20, played alongside brother Tre and Adelaide development player Keanu Rasmussen for the California Baptist Lancers last season, where he averaged 11.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 29.5 minutes per game.

He's signed a two-year deal with the Taipans.

“It’s exciting that Taran has committed to Cairns – it speaks volumes of our program. We made some aggressive moves this off-season just on the rumour that he might be interested in going pro, and so I’m obviously thrilled to see it pay off,” Taipans head coach Adam Forde said.

“There aren’t too many 21-year-old, 6’6” Australian point guards with his credentials floating around in free agency. He has such a level of polish and maturity to his game that is beyond his years. You don’t warrant the type of NBA attention he does without having an enormous ceiling.

“He’s from a basketball family and has a great family support network around him. Taran’s background at the Centre of Excellence, NBA Global Academy, representing Australia and D1 college makes him very ready for immediate impact into the NBL.”

Armstrong turned down reportedly heavy interest from both high-level collegiate programs and other NBL sides to sign with the Taipans.

“There was a lot to look at. I had really good options in the States and a few good opportunities back here (in Australia), but the NBL is as good as it’s ever been," Armstrong said.

“Speaking with Coach Adam Forde – he’s been great, and everyone I’ve spoken to had nothing but great things to say about him as well. It was a pretty easy decision."

The 21-year-old has joined fellow college talent Sam Mennenga in committing to the side for NBL24.