Sharpshooting Kuol Officially Signs With Cairns

The Cairns Taipans have confirmed the signing of sharpshooter Bul Kuol, with the 26-year-old putting pen-to-paper on a new one-year deal.

ESPN's Olgun Uluc reported the Taipans had secured one of their main men in April, with the news becoming official on Friday night via the club's website. 

"I appreciate how Bul took his time with this. He wanted to explore his options and see what was available, and we encouraged him to enter that free agency process and ultimately happy that he did," Taipans coach Adam Forde said. 

"His decision to come back to Cairns as his preferred destination provides us with a lot of confidence about the direction we are going in, and the type of players we want in our organisation, and what characteristics we value.

"It’s obviously amazing to get to have Bul back with us for another season, especially for me personally as he’s been one of our most consistent players over my two years here. 

"I’m really excited for him – he’s got another big year ahead. He just finished balling out in France, and he will suit up for South Sudan again in August. Then after all of that, he’s going to roll into our season as one of our most experienced, go-to guys. 

"Let’s not forget how remarkable this actually is – he won Rookie of the Year just 14 months ago."

Kuol has been a picture of consistency at the Taipans, averaging 10.4 points across both NBL22 and NBL23, and upping his rebounds from 2.7 to 3.4 and assists from 1.3 to 1.4 across two seasons. 

"As a pro, it’s my responsibility to explore all of my professional options, but Cairns has been and continues to be the best place for me," he said. 

"I have loved playing for the Taipans – this organisation has done a lot for me, and I have a genuine respect and trust for the person and coach that Forde is. I’m looking forward to getting back to work."

Kuol joins Tahjere McCall, Taran Armstrong, Sam Mennenga, Sam Waardenburg, AK Gak, Lat Mayen and Jonah Antonio as confirmed members of Cairns' NBL24 roster. The Taipans have one local and two import spots remaining. 

Keanu Pinder and DJ Hogg are among the big name exits from the club throughout the off-season.