Cairns Taipans youngster Taran Armstrong and New Zealand Breakers Next Star Mantas Rubstavicius will have the chance to impress NBA scouts this weekend, after being inviting to the NBA G League Elite Camp in Chicago.  

The Elite Camp is a two-day event where 45 draft prospects compete in several five-on-five games, and strength and agility drills, in front of NBA and NBA G League scouts, coaches, and front-office executives. 

A select number of players who impress at the Elite Camp will then be invited to the NBA Draft Combine later this month.

Armstrong is coming off his debut season with the Taipans, where he averaged 7.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 23 appearances. He amassed 21.8 minutes per game and made 13 starts. 

The highly touted guard showcased his wide array of skills in a January clash with the eventual champion Tasmania JackJumpers, recording a season-high 18 points, seven rebounds and four assists. 

Australian NBA superstar and former NBL Next Star Josh Giddey has been a long-time advocate for Armstrong, labelling him the “best passer in college ball” when he was playing for California Baptist. 

Armstrong is contracted to the Taipans for the upcoming 2024/25 NBL season. 

Rubstavicius developed into an important piece for Mody Maor’s Breakers squad last season, during their run to the Finals. 

The Lithuanian forward started 15 of the 23 games he played for New Zealand, and recorded 9.5 points per outing. 

Rubstavicius’ standout performance came in December against the Taipans when he poured in 21 points and eight rebounds. He scored 15 or more points six times during the campaign. 

Current NBA players who have previously been involved in the Elite Camp include Jose Alvarado (New Orleans Pelicans), Caleb Martin (Miami Heat), Terance Mann (LA Clippers), Max Strus (Cleveland Cavaliers), Mac McClung (two-time Slam Dunk contest winner), and Kenneth Lofton Jr (Utah Jazz).