Antonio signs new deal

Cairns Taipans shooting guard Jonah Antonio has signed up for a third consecutive season in Far North Queensland, agreeing to a new one-year contract. 

Antonio’s new deal comes two years into his NBL career, where he averaged 2.6 points and 1.3 rebounds in 2022-23, before improving to 3.7 points and 1.4 rebounds in 2023-24. 

A calf injury saw him miss almost half of last season, but he was elevated to the starting line-up in two of his 17 appearances. 

Antonio joined the Taipans after a journeyed collegiate career, attending Mount St. Mary’s, South Plains, the University of Nevada and finally Wake Forest University. 

Taipans Head Coach Adam Forde tried to sign the sharpshooter once he graduated, but instead he was lured to Europe and began his pro career in the Czech League. 

In his second attempt, Forde recruited Antonio for the 2022-23 season with a long-term view on his development and opportunities within the team. 

“Jonah is an athletic shooter who rebounds well for a guard. He defends and runs the lanes hard. 

“We haven’t seen him in full flight yet, but he’ll get his opportunity this season and I expect him to take full advantage." 

Forde explained that Antonio’s re-signing was assessed with as much rigour as a new player joining the squad and was transparent with his expectations. 

“During our end of season review, we evaluate each player to gauge their potential growth for next season,” Forde explained. 

“It’s a thorough assessment that answers the question: 'does this player have an increased role next season, or do we move him on?’ 

“In Jonah’s case, the conclusion was that he is prime for a considerable jump in performance and expectations. His growth has not only been a physical one, but also a mental one. 

“With the way our roster came together last year, Jonah spent another season playing backup minutes - which tested him. 

“However – the result is that he’s developed a stronger resolve and determination. There is a chip on his shoulder that I’ve probably put there, and I’m eager to see what happens now.” 

Antonio joins Kyrin Galloway, Jackson Makoi, Sam Waardenburg, AK Gak and Taran Armstrong on the Taipans 2024-25 roster. Early bird sale ends Friday! Join the Orange Army now.