A stunning third-quarter fightback from the Townsville Crocodiles saw them record a 108-102 victory over the Cairns Taipans in Townsville on Saturday night.

Crocs guard Brad Newley showed why he is being tipped to be Australia's next NBA star with 25 points and six rebounds as the home side won early season bragging rights over their northern rivals.

Newley was joined by point guard Kelvin Robertson (20 points) and star import Larry Abney (18 points, 13 rebounds) in turning around the Crocodiles' fortunes after they had trailed by seven at halftime.

Cairns dominated early with Martin Cattalini (19 points, 6 rebounds) enjoying the better of his clash with Abney while Anthony Stewart showed he had lost none of his touch from beyond the arc, scoring 23 in a losing effort.

Up 81-80 heading into the final quarter, Townsville maintained its composure as the lead see-sawed several times with rebounds the major difference between the two sides.

The Crocodiles dominated the boards 56 to 37 with Boomers squad member Greg Vanderjagt pulling in 10 rebounds to help Abney starve the Taipans of possession.

Abney confirmed his reputation with a stellar display against the "Big Cat" (Cattalini), while Robert Rose seemed to struggle in his former home venue, finishing the game scoreless after twenty minutes on court.

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