Cameron Bairstow surprised at Bullets decision not to take his option

NBL star Cameron Bairstow is exploring his options after being surprised by Brisbane Bullets decision not to extend his contract.

Cameron Bairstow of the Bullets in action against the Breakers. Picture: Dan Peled/AAP

Cameron Bairstow has been left shocked and surprised after the Brisbane Bullets decided not to extend his contract for another season.

The Bullets had a club option on the former NBA power forward’s contract for next season but informed him during the week they would not be taking it, making Bairstow a free agent.

Brisbane are reportedly in pursuit of free agent guard Nathan Sobey as well as wanting to re-sign star import Lamar Patterson with general manager Richard Clarke telling the Courier Mail the club could not commit to Bairstow and teammate Adam Gibson at this point.

In his return to the court after more than 18 months out with a knee injury, Bairstow averaged 11.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game during the 2018-19 season and shot the ball at 45 per cent from beyond the arc to help the Bullets reach the playoffs.

There is still the possibility of negotiating a new contract during the free agency period, which starts Monday, but Bairstow all but ruled out returning to the club.

Former Brisbane Bullets basketball player Cameron Bairstow. Picture: Richard Walker/AAP

“It (the decision) was a little surprising as I thought the team was heading in the right direction and that my play had continued to trend upward as the season progressed,” Bairstow said.

“But they are keen on a few free agents and prioritised going after them, which is part of the business.”

Leaving the Bullets is not easy for Bairstow, who grew up in Brisbane and played for the Brisbane Capitals and South West Metro Pirates as well as attending Churchie.

“Obviously I’m very passionate about Brisbane basketball and always will be so just having the team back is awesome,” Bairstow said.

“Playing for Brisbane was a dream come true as a kid that grew up here and I hope that they can continue the success we have had this season and continue to grow basketball in Brisbane.”

The 28-year-old said he would be keeping his options open for next season.

“I’ll just see what options are available for me and go from there. Whether that’s in Australia or overseas, I’ll just find the best fit where I can continue to progress as a player,” Bairstow said.