Cairns Basketball Inc. (CBI) is gearing up for an exciting 2026 NBL1 North season, with the Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins and The Ground Cairns Marlins set to open their campaigns on 18 April in a highly anticipated Round 1 clash against Townsville.
Both teams enter the new season with fresh energy, new talent and a strong focus on developing local players, while building on the foundations laid in previous years.
Cairns Basketball General Manager Luca Vergari said this season is about keeping up the momentum from last season and building on it.
“There’s a great mix of experience, emerging local talent and new energy coming into both the Dolphins and Marlins, and that will translate into a competitive and exciting season for our players, members and fans,” he said.
The Industry Estate Agents Cairns Dolphins will take to the court with a refreshed line-up, following some changes to their roster. Head Coach Marcus Wong said while the team has faced challenges with player availability, it has opened the door for emerging talent to step up.
“While we’ve lost some key players from last season, the foundations we’ve built along with new talent coming in, has created some great opportunities for these players to develop larger roles this season,” Coach Wong said.
“We’re really excited to see our local players step up this year. There’s a lot of potential in this group and it’s a chance for them to show what they can do.”
Dolphins player Mia Loyd said the team is motivated after narrowly missing a higher finish last season.
“After what we accomplished last year, coming so close and getting that third spot, I think we’re all doing a great job taking on the reins and leading us to – hopefully – a championship season,” she said.
“We are all hungry to improve and get after the season and get to that next level.”
Loyd also highlighted the value of international experience, noting that exposure to different styles of basketball continues to strengthen the team’s approach.
On the men’s side, The Ground Cairns Marlins enter the season under the leadership of Head Coach Joel Khalu, who is eager to lead the team in front of a home crowd.
“I’m eagerly anticipating the season. Returning home to coach this team is something that I’ve always wanted to do,” Coach Khalu said.
“To open the season against our archrivals, Townsville – there’s a lot of history there and we’re pumped for Round 1.”
Recent signing Amarco Doyle, fresh off a college year in New Mexico in the United States, said the strong team culture is already evident.
“Everyone on the team is a great guy, everyone gets along well, and that culture is what makes our team,” he said.
The Round 1 match-up against Townsville is expected to deliver an electric start to the season, with both the Dolphins and Marlins eager to make an early statement.
With a combination of experienced leaders, exciting new recruits and emerging local talent, CBI is confident both teams will be competitive throughout the 2026 NBL1 North season.
Fans are encouraged to come out and support the Dolphins and Marlins as they begin their campaigns on home court.
For the die-hard fans in Far North Queensland, CBI offers the VIP Furniture Signature Seat, also known as The 500 Club.
Designed for those who want to experience NBL1 North like never before, The 500 Club delivers an unmatched courtside experience that blends luxury and entertainment with community impact.
Each $500 VIP Furniture Signature Seat package includes:
