NBL player Jackson Makoi, who plays for the Cairns Taipans, has been arrested and is assisting police with an ongoing investigation. The club confirmed the news on Sunday, stating that Makoi would not be available for their away game against the Sydney Kings at Qudos Bank Arena.
The matter has been referred to Basketball Australia’s integrity unit, and the NBL has also been notified. The league issued a brief statement acknowledging the incident, but noted that as the situation is under investigation by NSW police and the integrity unit, they are unable to comment further at this stage.
Makoi, who represented South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has been a key player for the Taipans, averaging 4.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 11 games this season. Last August, Makoi was also banned for eight games following a driving under the influence charge while in Queensland. The club has stated it will not offer any further comments at this time.