REPORT: Clubs circling EuroLeague star

With the Free Agency period in full swing, rumours are beginning to swirl around some big names potentially returning for NBL27.

With the likes of Patty Mills and Joe Ingles recently linked to teams, former Cairns Taipains star guard Taran Armstrong is another who could be suiting up next season.

CODE Sports reported on Thursday that Armstrong “is poised to opt out of his multimillion-dollar deal with EuroLeague newcomers Dubai Basketball – opening the door for NBL clubs to circle for his signature.”

The 24-year-old has had a whirlwind 18 months since his time in Far North Queensland, beginning with a two-way deal with the Golden State Warriors before recently signing his lucrative deal with Dubai Basketball.

Armstrong has featured in just 11 games, which has meant that NBL clubs have kept a close eye on the young star.

"This will prompt the gifted guard to part ways with Dubai and enter the open market.. several NBL teams have maintained contact with Armstrong’s representatives and the NBL looks like the likely next step," Code Sports also reporting.

Armstrong's last season in the NBL was a memorable one for the Tasmanian local, as he took a bit leap forward in his development, averaging over 17 points, four rebounds and four assists per game.

ESPN’s Olgun Uluc and Pete Hooley have maintained constant dialogue around Armstrong’s deal in Dubai on The Marketplace, presented by Paywise. In particular, noting how a return to the NBL was possible, but it wouldn’t be a straightforward process.

"Yes, he's locked into a Dubai contract for now, but that won't stop NBL teams from trying," Hooley said.

One of those teams in particular, is Armstrong's home state of Tasmania.

“The JackJumpers really, really want Taran Armstrong,” Uluc added.

“Yes, there are challenges in making that happen, but I don’t think they’ve made it a secret around Tasmania that this in their number one priority.

“They are chasing that hard and they want that kid in their building.”