Tricky import decision
A FORMER Taipans captain believes high-flying American Cameron Oliver may be pushed out of the side with the NBL to limit teams to just two imports next season.
Clubs will lose a roster spot and an import position after a pay-cut deal was struck between the NBL and the Australian Basketball Players’ Association for the 2020-21 season.
In a perfect world, the Snakes’ three award-winning Americans, Scott Machado, DJ Newbill and Oliver would all be keen to come back for another campaign, with the club then needing to make the call on which of the two they would prefer.
Forward Oliver has recently signed a short-term deal in Israel, which is unlikely to impact his NBL prospects for next season, while Machado has remained in FNQ since the season ended, regularly trying his hand at water skiing at Lake Tinaroo.
Former Cairns captain Cameron Tragardh thinks incumbent co-captain Newbill and NBL fans MVP Machado need to remain, with Oliver making way.
“People might think I am crazy, but I think you would need to leave out Oliver if you could get all three,” Tragardh said. “He was elite, he was the surprise package of the season, but his price tag is going to be huge.
“You do not win championships with big guys – you need your point guard locked in and you need to back up the money truck for Machado.
“Machado is the key and I think you can still get Newbill about the right price.”
The Taipans are hopeful of retaining the All-NBL second team member when the next Australian season starts, with Oliver’s agent declaring on social media that the big man was set to “experience a few weeks in Israel”.
“Cameron Oliver signing in Israel is not unlike any other NBL off-season, where players take up opportunities overseas,” club chief executive Mark Beecroft told 7 News Cairns in a statement. “It is our understanding that the Israeli Super League will be one of the first basketball competitions to return this year.
“We always keep in touch with our players, off contract or not, and continue to engage with Cam and his agent regarding the upcoming NBL season – where the start date is still yet to be confirmed.”
Tragardh pointed to former Brisbane Bullet Matt Hodgson as a perfect replacement if Oliver was to depart, with Hodgson recently opting out of his contract following the NBL’s change in pay structure.
Hodgson was set to play for Rockhampton in the NBL1 North, before it was cancelled.
Transfer your banking to Bendigo Bank and ask for your account to be linked to ´&RQQHFWHG &RPPXQLWLHV )14μ
Bendigo Bank will pay a commission to Connected Communities FNQ
(please note that this will not affect any of the benefits attached to your account)
Get your community group to apply for the Connected Communities FNQ grants