Taipans' Unrivalled Energy Fuelling NBL23 Rise

Tahjere McCall is the dressing room leader of this Cairns Taipans team. While the side entered the season without an official captain it’s easy to see the level of respect and admiration his teammates hold for him and the steadying leadership he provides.

Cairns has continued to silence the doubters through NBL23. After finishing last season second bottom on the ladder they’ve had one of the most remarkable one season turnarounds in recent memory. At the time of writing they sit second on the ladder, only behind the reigning champion Sydney Kings.

McCall believes the energy of the group has played a key role in their incredible season so far.

“I’ve been part of a lot of teams, and teams try to create the feeling that this team has,” McCall said.

“It’s hard to make something like this happen. Everyone gets along no matter the situation is or who it is.

“This is a special group no matter what happens this season. This group is special.”

McCall and fellow guard Ben Ayre have forged a strong relationship within the tightly-knit Taipans group, with McCall describing Ayre as “like a brother” to him.

The pair are two of a small crop of remaining players from last season, and each spent time on the sidelines during what was an injury-ravaged campaign.

Ayre has since seen a further increase in his importance to his side and is one of the most high-energy guards in the competition.

“It’s special for him because he’s waited his turn. He’s put in the work and did it the right way,” McCall said of Ayre.

“I knew he could do it because I was with him all last year and I could see his potential.

“I’ve been a fan of his before now, so I’m just happy to see him get what he deserves and what he’s worked hard for.

“He’s genuinely like a brother to me and I want the best for him.”

Ayre responded to the praise from his teammate with kind words of his own.

“Ever since last year when I wasn’t even playing, myself and Tahj just clicked right away,” Ayre said.

“We hang out a lot, workout and [play] a lot of one-on-one. I just try and take as much knowledge as  I can from him.

“He’s been massive for my career and hopefully I’ve been the same for him in a way.”

Cairns’ high-flying season continues on Friday night against the Illawarra Hawks.