The Sydney Kings continued their unbeaten start to the season and set a new club record of 10 consecutive victories as they defeated the Cairns Taipans 83-69 at the Cairns Convention Centre.

It also takes Sydney to a record equalling 7-0 start to the season and high on confidence, but perhaps a little leg weary going into the clash against the Townsville Crocs at the Swamp on Sunday afternoon.

For the Kings Jason Smith was the main contributor with 22 points and he was well supported by captain Matt Nielsen with 14.

As always the Taipans were well led by Melvin Thomas with 14 points and Marcus Timmons with 13, but tough Sydney defence restricted Cairns' scoring options for most of the night.

After a slow first half from both teams the visitors jumped out of the blocks in the third period through the hot hands of import Ebi Ere (10 points for the term) and CJ Bruton (6).

Five minutes into the term the Kings turned a six point advantage into a 53-37 lead.

While Sydney presented the Taipans with numerous offensive rebound opportunities they could not capitalise and trailed 62-50 going into the last.

It was a workman-like performance from the Kings in the final quarter, out-muscling and frustrating the home team at both ends of the court.

Despite mid-week reports that Cairns would begin the match with defensive specialist Aaron Grabau on the court, the Taipans started with perimeter expert Anthony Stewart.

But the Taipans were unable to capitalise on their attacking advantage in the early stages as the Kings kept Cairns scoreless until three minutes into the match.

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