Braves guard to the rescue: Biwali answers the call

Image credit: Tania Millard @3 Point Photography

The Tasmania JackJumpers announced the signing of Bendigo Braves guard Biwali Bayles on Wednesday, in response to the club's injury-hit start to the Hungry Jack's NBL27 Season.

The 23-year-old Bayles signs as a Nominated Replacement Player, serving as a stop-gap solution while Ben Ayre recovers from a hip flexor injury.

Bayles flourished despite Bendigo's struggles, averaging 25.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, 7 assists and 1.9 steals per game in the 2026 NBL1 South season.

The highlight of that campaign was a 38-point, 10-rebound double-double with 6 assists against Casey in Round 12.

JackJumpers General Manager of Basketball Operations Darren Smith was excited about what Bayles could bring to Tasmania's backcourt.

"We'll have another expert ball handler with Bayles on board," Smith said.

"He is an energy guy, and you can't help but notice his aggression for the ball on the court.

"He'll be a great backup for Taran [Armstrong] as well, so that's some added depth for us too."

Bayles' Tasmania will hope to return to winning ways against Melbourne on Thursday, October 1 from 7.30pm AEST at MyState Bank Arena, after falling to Cairns in Round 2.