New Snake Stith passes ultimate test

After a gruelling day of trials in Cairns, Dillon Stith made a play that immediately caught the attention of Taipans coach Adam Forde. 

“The moment that stood out for me was when he rotated from the help side to block a shot and save the defence from what would have been an easy layup,” Forde told the Cairns website.  

“While the block in itself isn’t uncommon, the fact he did it after being on court for eight long hours showed commitment and determination. 

“That’s what we were looking for on the day - guys who don’t quit on the possession, no matter how physically exhausted and mentally drained they were.” 

In all, 40 players took to the court trying to prove they deserved an NBL roster spot – but in that moment Forde found his man.

The 200-centimetre forward has been around the league previously. He played 15 games at  United from 2019 to 2021 and boasts some impressive accolades across Melbourne’s Big V and the NBL1 over the best part of a decade.

He has suited up for the Melbourne Tigers, McKinnon Cougars, Frankston Blues, Waverley Falcons and most recently, the Casey Cavaliers, where he is averaging 19.6 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. 

At 32, Stith may have thought his opportunity in the NBL was gone. Now he’s set to line up for the Taipans in NBL25.

“Dillon has always been a well-known commodity in Australia because of his time with United and in the NBL1. So, it wasn’t surprising when doing the call around on him that everyone gave such glowing endorsements about his character and work ethic,” Forde said.
 
“Dillon is a basketball lifer. He continues to work on his game, which has showed up in his shooting, especially this season hitting 40 per cent from three. 

“He’ll be a high energy guy, hard worker, and no doubt contribute to the community and club in so many meaningful ways." 

Stith obtained Australian Citizenship in 2023, meaning he'll be a local on the Taipans' roster. He last played as an import during his time with United.

He has signed a two-year deal, with the second season as a club option.

The Taipans have two remaining positions available: one import (restricted) and one local (non-restricted) for NBL25.