Brisbane Bullets Sign Kiwi Star Taine Murray

The Brisbane Bullets have bolstered their roster with the exciting addition of New Zealand guard Taine Murray ahead of the 2025/26 NBL season.

A product of New Zealand, Murray arrives in Brisbane following an impressive collegiate career at the University of Virginia, capped by a standout senior season in 2024-25.

In his final National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season, Murray featured in 31 games, including six starts, and averaged 4.1 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game.

He shot an efficient 43% from the field, 41.9% from beyond the arc, and 73.3% from the free throw line, showcasing his reliability as a floor spacer and steady contributor.

He recorded career-highs of 20 points, 7 assists and 36 minutes in a standout performance against Miami on January 29.

“Taine’s body of work at one of the best college programs in the U.S. speaks volumes,” said Bullets Head Coach Stu Lash.

“He’s a high-IQ player, a knockdown shooter, and someone who puts in the work on both ends of the floor.

“But more than that, he’s a great person and a team-first competitor. Our fans will love the energy and skillset he brings,” Lash said.

Murray is no stranger to elite competition — before Virginia, he was already playing professionally with the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL and had debuted for the Tall Blacks.

His standout junior career included a 49-point game in high school and MVP honours at the Nike All Asia Camp in 2019.

Now, Murray is set to make his mark in Brisbane — and is excited to be linking up once again with his former schoolmate, Tohi Smith-Milner.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity with the Bullets,” said Murray.

“Brisbane’s vision for the future really stood out to me – it’s a club that’s building something strong and competitive.

“I’m ready to embrace the challenge, keep developing my game, and contribute in any way I can to help this team win.”

Murray’s journey — from Hong Kong to Auckland, Charlottesville, and now the River City — is a story of consistency, growth, and performance at every level.

With his sharp shooting, defensive hustle, and athletic genetics (his father Carl played professional rugby for the All-Blacks Sevens), Taine brings both talent and toughness to the Bullets' backcourt rotation.