The Cairns Taipans opened their NBL season with a thrilling 83-82 home victory over the Brisbane Bullets on September 26, 2025. The Taipans escaped with a one-point win after a dramatic final possession decided the match. In a game of runs, the Bullets held a slim lead for much of the fourth quarter, but Cairns chipped away in the final minutes. The decisive moment came with seconds remaining, as the Taipans' star guard drove to the basket and drew a foul, sinking both free throws to take the lead. Brisbane had one last chance, but a heavily contested three-point attempt at the buzzer missed its mark. The victory was a massive early-season boost for Cairns, setting a positive tone, while the Bullets were left to ponder a heartbreaking loss after a strong performance on the road.