The words of the Taranaki Steelformers Mountain Airs’ newest addition carry the weight of a journey few could imagine. For Harry Froling, this year’s NBL season represents more than just a return to the court — it’s a second chance at experiencing life through the game he loves.
“I shouldn’t even be alive, let alone playing basketball,” he says.
Back in 2021, while playing for the Brisbane Bullets, Froling was the victim of a king hit punch while walking home alone after a night out. At 210cm in height (6’11”) the fall to the ground caused a brain bleed, leading to a craniotomy and a long road to recovery.
Yes it’s online and the most sickening part is the people involved all walked away, with one of them taking a photo on his phone of a prone and unconscious Froling.
The aftermath was brutal. He had concussion symptoms that lasted well over a year, sleepless nights, dizziness, depression, and the uncertainty of whether he would ever play basketball again. It was through sheer perseverance and the unwavering support of his coaches and family — particularly brother, Sam, who played for the Airs last season — Froling has found his way back. After training with the Illawarra Hawks for the past 12 weeks, he’s now here in Taranaki, ready to make the most of an opportunity to return to competitive basketball.
His story of redemption is just one of many for the Mountain Airs this season. After a heartbreaking loss in the semifinals last year following logistic constraints that saw them have to play the first-placed Canterbury Rams instead of second-placed Auckland, the team is determined to go further. They’re fuelled by fresh talent, returning stars, and a coach with unfinished business.
Head coach Sam Mackinnon will be steering a team that looks substantially different from last year’s semi-final squad, but the goal to win a championship remains the same.
“Last year was a special group,” Mackinnon reflects. “We had to adapt on the fly when Sam Froling left late in the season, and I’m really proud of the way the guys bought into that. But we did fall just short. This year, we’ve got a retooled group, and we’re hungry for more.”
The team’s first two games have been a bit of a rollercoaster. After riding the high of downing league heavyweights the Wellington Saints 115-110 first up, they were unable to back the win up at home two days later, losing to the Manawatu Jets 84-93. Both games did however identify the potential in this year’s roster, and what they could achieve together.
The Airs have brought back key players like Scotty Telfer and Armon Fletcher (who played for the Airs in 2023), while also adding new firepower with Froling, Otago’s Jack Andrew, Canterbury’s Jack Exeter and guard Owen Foxwell, who arrives from the Australian NBL’s South East Melbourne Phoenix.
Mackinnon likens Foxwell to Canterbury’s Taylor Britt, who had a great influence in the Rams’ success last season, and says Foxwell’s ability to control the game and disrupt opponents will be a major asset.
At 6ft10, 24-year-old Andrew also has the ability to bring a significant defensive presence, with Mackinnon stating his size in the paint will be invaluable.
Powerful forward (should that be Power Froward?) Dom Kelman-Poto has also joined the team after playing with the Franklin Bulls in last year’s competition. With a mix of veteran IQ and young energy, the coach is confident in his team’s ability to wear opponents down.
“We’ve got good size, depth, and physicality. We want to make teams uncomfortable, use our defence to create transition opportunities, and play smart basketball.”
One of the most exciting returnees for the Airs is Carlin Davison. At just 21, this will be his sixth season with the team and he’s ready to put that experience to good use. After top-scoring with 36 points in the season opener, it’s clear he’s ready to play.
“I was really happy with how I played last year. My numbers were pretty good but I know my leadership could have been stronger, and I think I’ve taken a big step up in that area ahead of this season.”
Davison has always been an electrifying player, and after a season with the New Zealand Breakers under coach Petteri Koponen, he’s readyto attack the rim even harder, while locking down on defence. He wants to be the guy who can guard the opposition’s best player, set the tone, and help guide this team to success. “We’ve got a great vibe going already this year, and I want to do whatever Coach needs me to do, to help us win.”
A patriotic player who loves playing at home, Davison doesn’t take his position in the Airs for granted.
“It’s been a real honour to play here, and I’m always grateful to Trent (Adam) and Dave (Bublitz) for giving me a chance at such a young age.
“To see what this team has done in the last two years, making two semi-finals, it’s pretty cool. I think we have every chance to go to the final and win it this year.”
Mackinnon believes this year’s squad has great depth, which could be the key to booking that spot in the playoffs.
“Having players like Dom, Scotty, Jack adding that depth to our team will give us something different than we had last year.
“We’ll see how the season unfolds and look to adjust where we need to adjust, but I feel like we’ve got a really balanced group here that can go the distance.”
While the Airs have reloaded with talent, the road to a championship won’t be easy. The Sal’s NBL is stacked with strong teams this season, each bringing unique challenges that Taranaki will need to navigate.
Last year’s champions, the Canterbury Rams, remain one of the biggest threats with a well-balanced squad and the confidence of a title-winning campaign.
Then there’s the Wellington Saints, a perennial powerhouse known for their depth and firepower. After a disappointing 2024 season by their standards, they’ll be hungry to reclaim their status as the league’s top team.
The Auckland Tuatara, who finished as runners-up last season, will also be a major obstacle. With a mix of experienced veterans and explosive young talent, they play an up-tempo style that can overwhelm opponents.
Aside from key teams, there’s also the unpredictability of the season itself — injuries, road trips, and the constant challenge of maintaining chemistry within a new-look squad. But Mackinnon and his team are embracing the challenge.
“You don’t win a title without going through adversity,” he says. “Every team in this league has weapons, but we believe in what we’re building here. It’s about taking it one game at a time and making sure we’re peaking when it matters most.”
Having also taken on the role of General Manager for the Airs this season, Mackinnon understands the importance of not only putting a competitive team on the floor, but offering a strong game-day experience.
“Taranaki fans are incredibly loyal, and we want to give them something to cheer for. We’ve built a group that’s exciting, hard-working, and ready to compete. We’d love to see more of that support we had last year, come back in 2025.”
The energy from fans is something Armon Fletcher remembers clearly from his time here in 2023.
“We have the best fans, for sure. There’s nothing but love here in Taranaki.”
Originally from the small town of Eversville, Illinois, the 196cm guard built an impressive career across the NBA G League, and in Luxembourg, before making his way to New Zealand in 2023. A versatile player who can cover positions one through four, he brings quick hands on defense, a physical presence in the paint, and a fast-paced, transition-focused game.
The 29-year-old has a degree in psychology and a passion for mentoring youth. He’s looking forward to immersing himself in Taranaki life and soaking up the energy from fans.
For Froling, it’s about finding joy in every game, while using his experience and time away from basketball, to contribute to the team.
“I know a lot about basketball, and I feel like I know how to play the game the right way. So I’m keen to share that with the team, help some of the younger guys out, compete hard, and see where this journey takes us.”
A spot of fishing could be on the cards too.
“I’m big into fishing — spearfishing, too. It’s been a bit of a saviour for me over the last couple of years. If anyone’s keen to take me out, I’m all in,” he says with a smile.
While it’s been a long road for Froling to get back on court, it’s clear to see the Airs team is just as eager to hit the floor again, too.
The hunger to push beyond last season’s disappointment is alive and well, and with the support of the Taranaki community, they’re hoping to do just that.
Taranaki Mountain Airs full squad: Jack Andrew, Carlin Davison, Jack Exeter, Harry Froling, Armon Fletcher, Owen Foxwell, Dom Kelman-Poto, Jerome Tamatea, Shaun Te Rini, Scotty Telfer, Riley Tuuta.
