The Bolden move that could pay off big for Cairns

Cairns Taipans coach Adam Forde says Jonah Bolden's shift in mentality heading into this season has been "remarkable," and is expecting big improvement from the former NBA big man.

Bolden arrives at his fourth NBL club at the age of 30, having suffered a serious Achilles injury during his time in Illawarra last year.

But Forde says Bolden “looks fantastic” and primed to return to his best.

“He hasn't played basketball in the last eight months aside from the pre-season games, and he's really just been super diligent in making sure he can get back on the court,” he said.

Despite Bolden's extensive NBA, Boomers and NBL pedigree, Forde says he barely knew him on a personal level before signing him, but has grown a great respect for his journey and willingness to improve.

"When I spoke to him [Bolden] on the phone at length he went into great detail about where he was at with his mindset and the things he wanted to focus on and change, and you know, it really appealed to me,” Forde said.

"Knowing that was kind of the standard he set for himself coming in, since he's been here, he's been remarkable. I feel like I credit him at least once or twice a week on the progression that he's made both on and off the court."

Forde is backing Bolden to make a big impact in 2026.

"I think he's going to be a surprise packet for a lot of people, and I think we're going to be very lucky in the sense of getting the Jonah Bolden that we have right now, because he's in a head space that's in a really good place and physically looks really great."

The Taipans tip off their Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season with a road trip, taking on Bolden's former team, Sydney, on Sunday from 5pm AEST, live on ESPN.