The New Zealand Breakers have managed to keep their season alive by defeating the Sydney Kings in the first round of the NBL basketball playoffs.
The game, which took place in Sydney, ended with a score of 83-76 in favor of the Breakers, dashing the Kings’ hopes for a third consecutive championship win.
The game started with the Kings leading 22-15 after the first quarter and maintaining a nine-point lead at halftime. However, the Breakers made a remarkable comeback in the second half, outscoring the Kings 45-29. This impressive performance was largely thanks to Parker Jackson-Cartwright, an import guard for the Breakers, who scored a whopping 34 points, along with six assists and five rebounds.
Despite some challenges, including injuries to key players like Zylan Cheatham, who hurt his ankle but returned to contribute in the second half, and Will McDowell-White, who played just two weeks after a serious shoulder injury, the Breakers showed incredible determination.
Coach Mody Maor praised the team’s toughness and focus, especially noting their determination during halftime.
This victory not only keeps the Breakers in the competition but also allows Tom Abercrombie, who is retiring, to play in at least one more game. The Breakers are now set to face the Illawarra Hawks in Wollongong in the next round of the Play-In battle.
