NBL training boosts Marlins bid

SMALL forward Kuany Kuany believes the start of NBL preseason training has been the catalyst behind the Marlins sharp rise in form over the past month.

The Taipans-listed Kuany, as well as Fabijan Krslovic, Michael Nwelue, Anthony Fisher and Christian Jurlina, are regulars around the NBL club’s group and he says the increased intensity of training has helped their QBL form. Since preseason training has ramped up under new coach Mike Kelly, the Marlins have reeled off three straight victories over Sunshine Coast Phoenix, Logan Thunder and Mackay Meteors to qualify for tonight’s decider against Townsville.

“Throughout the QBL season, we have had our ups and downs but I think the fact right now we have started our Taipans training has helped,” the second year forward said.

“Playing against those older guys, it has got our competitive levels up and we are learning a lot with our new coach Mike Kelly. I can attribute our Taipans training to what we are doing in the Marlins season.”

Kuany said Townsville were a team that was strong across the board and backed Marlins coach Jamie O’Loughlin to come up with a game plan that will be able to slow the hosts.

Champions Townsville have won both North Queensland derbies this season. Games tip off at the Murray Basketball Centre at 8pm on Friday and Saturday and 12pm and 2pm on Sunday, if required. Did the Cairns Taipans beat Drexel last night? www.cairnspost.com.au