GTS
Years ago
Trigger signs for 2 more years with Taipans
The NBL's best sixth man will remain in orange until 2017 after forward Cameron Tragardh signed for a further two seasons with the CQUniversity Cairns Taipans.
The club’s first player signing of the off-season ensures the Taipans’ front line remains strong, with big men Alex Loughton and Matt Burston both on-contract for next season.
Tragardh, 31, was a revelation for the Taipans off the bench in 2014-15, ranking second for the club in scoring (12.2 points per game), rebounds (4.9) and finishing fifth in the NBL in offensive rebounding (2.3).
Tragardh was the league’s fourth-best offensive rebounder and was named the NBL’s Best Sixth Man during the 2015 Finals, recognition head coach Aaron Fearne says is a credit to Tragardh’s selflessness.
"He had a sensational season and bought into his role 100 per cent. That’s a credit to him, as he’s been a starter in the NBL for a long time and had to change roles," Fearne said.
“Cam had a sensational season this year. He’s an impact player and is a tough cover when he gets going offensively. He’s a game changer and a game winner.”
Fearne said the Taipans’ famed teamwork and stingy defence would be bolstered with Tragardh’s returning alongside teammates Burston and Loughton.
“You need experience and they’ve all played in lot of big games, so it’s important having them all back.”
“The way we played as a team this season was sensational. Guys bought in, we played extremely unselfishly and defended well as a team, and it takes teamwork to do that.”
Tragardh joined the Taipans in 2012 after two seasons with the Melbourne Tigers. In his 73 appearances for the Snakes he has averaged 11.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.
