BOOMERS coach Brian Goorjian has heaped praise on Taipans guard Kerry Williams, saying the youngster has "national team potential" in the Patrick Mills mould.

Speaking before the Taipans’ 38-point loss against the Dragons, Goorjian, who has coached the national team since 2002 and will apply for the position again, said a player like Williams was exciting for Australian basketball.

Williams made an impression on the veteran coach when he came off the bench in the Taipans’ 98-92 win against the Dragons in round one.

"I was disappointed we lost but I was excited about him," Goorjian said. "He’s great for the league."

Goorjian said Williams’ game reminded him of Boomers point guard Patrick Mills.

"I think he has national team potential," he said.

"He has a level of quickness offensively and defensively, and explosive movement that is unique to Australian content.

"Not only Cairns but the country should be excited about him."

Williams played extensive minutes against the Dragons on Wednesday night, ending with seven assists and five points in 28 minutes on court in the Taipans’ 102-64 loss.

While he showed glimpses of his potential, Williams was not a standout in a lacklustre overall performance by the Snakes.

Goorjian praised the development work being done in the Far North. Williams, Nathan Jawai and Aron Baynes have all graduated to the elite level.

"Cairns is doing a pretty good job of junior development, there’s a lot of good going on up in that program," he said.

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