'He can be a top 10 player': Anstey's huge breakout call

The Hungry Jack's NBL is full of rising stars set to explode during the 2026-27 season.

From players who have changed teams to those who are taking on bigger roles, there is no shortage of talent ready to take that next step.

Last season, Next Gen and Most Improved Award winners, Sam Mennenga (New Zealand) and Flynn Cameron (Adelaide), were rewarded for making huge strides on the court.

Now two-time MVP Chris Anstey has thrown his support behind one of the League's most exciting talents to take that next step.

"Jaylin Galloway can be a top 10 player in this League in Cairns," Anstey said on NBL Now.

"If you're looking for a player who's going to surprise people, he's got all the tools.

"They [Cairns] are now giving him the keys and a long leash, where we could play 35 minutes a game, compared to 15 or 20 in Sydney.

"He will be allowed to showcase his skills and the athlete he is by putting the ball in his hands to shoot it 20 times a game. [He could] go crazy.

"At a Boomers level, we've seen him produce in that role as FIBA Galloway.

"I think you're going to see a very comfortable Jaylin Galloway; he could be the best player on that team.

"All of a sudden, this gives them a genuine big three, which can beat teams."

Fellow panellist Derek Rucker agrees with Anstey, believing Galloway has proven he can rise to the occasion.

"You look at the biggest stage last year in the Championship Series, he was outstanding," Rucker said.

It's because of Galloway and the likes of Keanu Pinder, Jack McVeigh and Jaylon Brown that Anstey believes the Taipans will push for post-season hoops in NBL27.

"I believe they're a sleeper to challenge for the Play-In spots," Anstey said.

"Adam Forde hasn't had a consistent roster [in years].

"One thing we've always said behind closed doors about the Cairns Taipans is they're incredible at finding talent and then losing it immediately when the rest of the League.

"But this year, they are my smokey."

Cairns play Perth (September 2) and Adelaide (September 5) before opening their NBL27 season against Sydney at Afterpay Arena on Sunday, September 19.