register NOW!

beginners welcome. All Skill levels.

Facebook Instagram

register NOW!

beginners welcome. All Skill levels.

Facebook Instagram

register NOW!

Beginners welcome.
All Skill levels.

Facebook Instagram

NBL1 North

Cairns Basketball’s Elite Competition

The NBL1 North is Queensland’s premier semi‑professional basketball league and a key pillar of the national NBL1 competition, one of five state‑based conferences forming a direct pathway to the professional National Basketball League (NBL) and Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL). 
Cairns Basketball Inc. (CBI) is proudly represented in this competition by two elite teams: the men’s Cairns Marlins and the women’s Cairns Dolphins. Both teams compete against other associations across Queensland, showcasing high‑level basketball and developing talent within Far North Queensland and beyond. 

Season Structure & Competition
The NBL1 North season typically runs from April to August each year, featuring a regular season followed by a finals series. Teams across Queensland and northern regions compete in a highly competitive schedule that highlights both individual talent and team performance. The league regularly attracts a high level of talent including current and former NBL/WNBL players, international representatives and top athletes from US college programs, contributing to its reputation as one of Australia’s strongest semi‑professional leagues. 
 
Watch Live & Stay Connected
All NBL1 North games are livestreamed via the official NBL1 app and website, a great way to follow every moment of the action live from anywhere. Select games, including a featured Game of the Week, are also broadcast on Kayo Sports, bringing NBL1 to even more fans across Australia.
Watch NBL1 North
Purchase tickets

Our Teams

Cairns Marlins

Founded in 1987, the Cairns Marlins have a proud and storied history as one of the most successful clubs in Queensland basketball, securing nine championships—more than any other association during their time in the former Queensland State Basketball League. Now competing in the men’s NBL1 North, the Marlins play home games at Trinity Ford Stadium, attracting loyal supporters while continuing to develop elite talent and represent Far North Queensland with pride across every season they contest each.

Cairns Marlins — Men’s Team Head Coach: Joel Khalu
Joel brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to Cairns basketball. Known for his strategic approach and player development focus, Joel is dedicated to guiding the Marlins to success on and off the court. He has a strong track record in nurturing local talent and fostering team culture in competitive basketball.

Cairns Dolphins

The Cairns Dolphins represent CBI in the women’s NBL1 North competition and have developed a reputation for skill, resilience, and dedication to women’s basketball in the region. Since their establishment in 1987, the Dolphins have consistently attracted rising stars, experienced competitors, and athletes with national-league experience. Playing their home games at Trinity Ford Stadium, the team brings the community together each week, delivering high-level basketball while inspiring the next generation both on and off the court.

Cairns Dolphins — Women’s Team Head Coach: Marcus Wong
NBL1 North powerhouse coach Marcus Wong is back to lead the Cairns Dolphins women’s team in 2026. A former NBL1 West Coach of the Year and WNBL championship-winning assistant with Townsville Fire, Wong brings a proven track record and aims to guide the Dolphins back to finals contention.

NBL1 Corporate box sponsors

Home Court Advantage

Both Marlins and Dolphins home games are played at Trinity Ford Stadium in Cairns — a vibrant sporting venue that hosts community members, families and fans throughout the NBL1 North season. Whether you’re attending in person or watching online, supporting Cairns Basketball’s elite teams is an exciting part of the competitive calendar.