Cairns Basketball Incorporated (CBI) is proud to announce Marcus Wong is returning as the Head Coach of The Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins for the upcoming NBL1 North season.

A former NBL1 West Coach of the Year and WNBL championship-winning assistant coach with Townsville Fire, Coach Wong led the team in 2025, bringing a proven track record and a commitment to developing high-performance athletes in Far North Queensland. His appointment will maintain the strength of the Dolphins as they prepare to compete in Queensland’s premier semi-professional basketball league.

The NBL1 North conference runs annually from April to July, featuring a regular season followed by a finals series and showcasing some of the country’s top emerging and established basketball talent. The 2026 NBL1 North round commences on Saturday 18 April.

CBI is represented in the competition by its two elite teams: The Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins (women’s team) and The Ground Cairns Marlins (men’s team). Both programs play a vital role in strengthening the basketball pathway across Far North Queensland, providing local athletes with opportunities to compete at an elite level while inspiring the next generation of players.

Coach Wong said he was excited to return and continue building the strength of the team.

“I’m excited to return and continue building on the foundations we’ve laid,” he said.

“Far North Queensland has exceptional basketball talent, and it’s a privilege to help develop that within a high-performance environment.”

Coach Wong also said he was happy to see returning marquee player Mia Loyd.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Mia back to The Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins,” he said.

“She’s a proven competitor with the ability to impact games, especially on the offensive end of the floor, but just as importantly, she brings leadership and professionalism to the group.

“Having a marquee player of her calibre returning gives our program real momentum heading into the season.”

CBI believes Coach Wong’s leadership will continue to elevate the Dolphins program, building a competitive, resilient and unified team culture both on and off the court as they aim for finals contention.

CBI General Manager Luca Vergari said the team is lucky to have Coach Wong returning.

“We’re extremely pleased to have Marcus returning to lead The Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins,” he said.

“He brings a proven track record, strong leadership and a clear vision for what this program can achieve.

“We’re confident his experience and direction will continue to strengthen the Dolphins both on and off the court.”

All NBL1 North games are livestreamed via the official NBL1 app and website, with select fixtures broadcast nationally on Kayo Sports, allowing fans to stay connected and follow every moment of the season.

Further details regarding the 2026 roster and season fixtures will be announced in the coming weeks.