Bolden opportunity: Ex NBA big joins Taipans

The Cairns Taipans announced on Tuesday the signing of Jonah Bolden on a one-year contract for the Hungry Jack’s NBL27 Season.

The 2017 NBA Draft pick, who played with both the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns, as well as spending time in the G League and Europe, returned home to Australia in 2023 to sign with the Sydney Kings.

Since then, Bolden has suited up for the New Zealand Breakers and Illawarra Hawks, before an Achilles injury with the latter ended his NBL26 Season.

The 30-year-old has spent this NBL off-season rehabbing and reflecting on his career, with a perfectly timed conversation with Taipans coach Adam Forde turning the tide.

“I believe it's a blessing in disguise,” Bolden said.

“These injuries gave me a window to re-evaluate my approach, who I want to be as a player, as a teammate and what I’ve got to do to get to a certain level.

“I didn’t hit the mark the past few seasons.

“I got really good energy from Fordey, and so many people have told me great things about him. I’m excited for the opportunity to be coached by him.

“He sold me on Cairns as a whole and the team as a fit. It’s a known organisation for player development, but it’s also known for the opportunities they give to guys that have that chip on their shoulder.

“The Taipans tick all the boxes in terms of what I need to get back to where I want to be, but they have a team that shares a similar vision.

“I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys, to be honest.

“I’m excited to get out there, be part of the community and obviously I’m also excited to hit the floor again.”

The Sydney product joins a revamped Taipans’ squad that features Jack McVeigh, Keanu Pinder, Sunday Dech, Reyne Smith, Kyrin Galloway, Shaun Bruce and Luke Paul.

>> NBL27 Roster Tracker: Every signing, extension and departure