Round 2 of NBL26 continues on Friday night with a matchup between the 0-1 Cairns Taipans and the 1-0 Brisbane Bullets. Both clubs are beginning a double-game week to try and are aiming to get their campaigns off to a positive start. We bring you our full game preview and best bet for the clash below!
Also, we’re providing previews and expert betting tips for every game of the NBL26 season, so make sure to head over to our NBL Tips page regularly to keep up to date with all of our content.
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Cairns Taipans vs Brisbane Bullets Prediction & Betting Tips: NBL26 Round 2
Snakes Need to Respond
The Cairns Taipans are coming into their home opener in desperate need of a fresh start after a disastrous Round 1. The Snakes were dismantled by the South East Melbourne Phoenix, falling 114-77 in a game where they were outclassed from the opening tip. With key players Sam Waardenburg and a new import still sidelined, the Taipans' offence was stagnant and their defence non-existent. They struggled with turnovers and were unable to contain the balanced attack of the Phoenix. It was a humbling defeat that highlighted the long road ahead for the Taipans, who will need a monumental effort to turn things around quickly.
What to Take from the Bullets Round 1 Win?
In contrast, the Brisbane Bullets are riding a wave of confidence after an impressive 104-95 road win against the New Zealand Breakers. The Bullets' dynamic backcourt of Jaylen Adams, Casey Prather, and Javon Freeman-Liberty proved to be a handful for the Breakers, while big man Tyrell Harrison dominated the paint with 24 points and 15 rebounds. However, the true strength of that win is tough to gauge. Just a few days later, the same Breakers team was absolutely routed by Melbourne United, 114-82. This makes it difficult to get a proper read on the Bullets’ performance; was it a sign of their true potential, or did they simply capitalize on a New Zealand team that was out of shape and struggling with injuries?
Recent H2H History
The recent head-to-head history between these two Queensland rivals has been competitive, though the Bullets have had the upper hand in the most recent matchups. The Bullets won their pre-season 'Sunshine Stoush' clash against the Taipans, a game that saw strong performances from both Harrison and newcomer Freeman-Liberty. The Taipans, even with their home court advantage, have struggled to consistently overcome their state rivals. The Taipans’ ability to contain a red-hot Harrison will be key, especially without their own injured big man in Waardenburg.
Who Wins? Here’s Our Taipans vs Bullets Tip
Ultimately, the Bullets appear to have too much firepower and momentum coming into this clash. While the nature of their Round 1 win is up for debate, their key players are clicking and they have a distinct advantage in the frontcourt. The Taipans, on the other hand, are a team in disarray after a poor showing and are still working to integrate new pieces. While the Taipans will undoubtedly be desperate for a response on their home floor, the Bullets' depth and form should be enough to see them get the job done. Look for Brisbane to cover the -5.5 spread, but don't expect them to run away with it easily; the Taipans will put up a fight, even if it's not enough to get them over the line.
Brisbane Bullets -5.5
$1.88 (1 Unit)
Taipans vs Bullets Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday, September 26th 2025
Time: 7:30pm AEST
Location: Cairns Convention Centre
Odds: Taipans $2.70 vs Bullets $1.48
Line: Bullets -5.5
Points: 185.5
Where to Watch Taipans vs Bullets
You can watch the Taipans vs Bullets clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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