Future of Cairns Basketball: 6 rising stars selected to represent North Queensland
We take a closer look at each of the six young players’ selected, highlighting their key attributes and X-factor.
Cairns continues to produce top-tier basketball talent, with six local players recently earning spots on the Under-18 North Queensland state team.
These rising stars are a testament to the booming basketball scene, with Cairns Basketball continually nurturing and advancing the premier talent in the region.
We take a closer look at each of the six young players’ selected, highlighting their key attributes and X-factor.
Leah Pearson-Pitt
Leah is a true point guard and a proven leader with four years of state-level experience.
She sets the tone defensively with her relentless pressure and has the ability to control the tempo of the game when needed.
As one of the team’s most experienced players, she will play a crucial role in leading the defensive effort and embracing the responsibility of running the offence with poise and confidence.
Breanna Edgerton
The ultimate hard worker, Breanna is the kind of player every coach values.
She thrives on the one-percenters — the hustle plays, rebounds and defensive efforts that don’t always show up on the stat sheet but are essential to winning games.
Developing into a reliable three-point shooter, she competes fearlessly as an undersized big and brings four years of state experience.
Taryn Bond
Taryn is one of the toughest and most versatile players in the country, capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor.
A dynamic scorer with an unmatched competitive edge, she thrives under pressure and will be a key contributor to Queensland North.
Her leadership skills continue to grow, and as a four-year state representative, she brings invaluable experience to the squad.
Saxon Toyne
Saxon is a powerful and consistent performer, standing out as a strong and efficient power forward.
Known for his impressive mid-range shooting and post defence, he uses his physicality to dominate in the paint.
With four years of state representation, he brings vital experience to the team.
His humble, hardworking nature makes him a quiet leader and his rebounding ability and defensive presence make him a key player for the squad.
Saxon’s unassuming personality belies his impressive, inspirational play, and he is a steady, reliable force in every game.
Keenan Williams
A prolific scorer and natural playmaker, Keenan is a dynamic 185cm (6ft 1in) guard capable of playing both on and off the ball.
The 15-year old is known for his impressive control and ability to finish strong through contact.
Whether as a shooter or a slasher, Keenan’s athleticism and scoring ability make him a constant threat.
He thrives in big moments, particularly in the fourth quarter, where his ability to catch fire can swing a game.
As a bottom-age selection, his versatility and scoring ability at such a young age already position him as a future leader for the squad.
Kobi Teasdale
At just 15, Kobi is already a standout with his elite rim protection and versatile game. Standing at 198cm (6ft 6 in), he’s an agile big man who excels as both a power forward and centre, though he often slots into the starting centre position to anchor the paint.
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Kobi’s great timing and length give him an edge in rebounding, while his ball-handling skills are rare for a player of his size.
Cool, calm and collected under pressure and in big moments makes him a valuable asset to the team, particularly with his ability to change the game at both ends of the floor.
Originally published as Future of Cairns Basketball: 6 rising stars selected to represent North Queensland
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