Cairns adds developing duo

The Cairns Taipans have further strengthened their roster for the NBL25 season, securing the signatures of Development Players Kody Stattmann and Alex Higgins-Titsha.

Stattmann will be familiar to NBL fans, having spent a season at the Brisbane Bullets, before more recently lining up with the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

The 24-year-old averaged 3.6 points and 1.6 rebounds, in a little over 12 minutes per game during his most recent campaign.

The guard was a standout during the Taipans' recent open gym session and will be elevated to the main roster at the end of NBL25.

24 on Thursday, Higgins-Titsha has been a standout in the NBL1 East this year, playing with the Inner West Bulls, and also appeared for the Bangui Sporting Club of the Basketball Africa League during their 2023-24 season. 

Higgins-Titsha has signed a two-year contract (second-year club option) for his first NBL opportunity. 

“Both these guys showcased their strengths during our open trial,” head coach Adam Forde said.

“As the day progressed on and fatigue started playing a part in the player's performance, these two kicked it into another gear.

“Kody showed his ability to knock down from range and engage in the defensive contest, while Alex consumed every rebound available and even finished the eight-hour day with a two-handed reverse dunk.

“Having both Kody and Alex adds to some talented depth in our wing positions.

“Kody already has two years’ experience and has a good understanding of the league, while Alex is a hungry rookie with all the athleticism and drive to be an NBL player.” 

Alex Higgins-Titsha.

Stattmann is averaging 27.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game with the Cairns Marlins in the NBL1, with seven 30-plus point games and multiple Player of the Week awards.

Higgins-Titsha is averaging 19.9 points and 8.7 rebounds for the finals-bound Inner West Bulls.