Breakers Go Cold Late as 36ers Grind Out Road Win
The New Zealand Breakers seemed poised to claim victory over Adelaide but fell victim to a six-minute scoring drought in the final quarter.
Final Quarter Collapse Costs Breakers
A scoreless stretch late in the game prevented the Breakers from pulling off another NBL upset, as Adelaide eked out an 83-79 win in Christchurch. Entering the fourth quarter with a two-point lead, the Breakers managed only two free throws and missed 14 straight field-goal attempts within the first eight minutes of the last period.
Key Player Performances
- Bryce Cotton led the 36ers with 23 points and six assists, overcoming a slow start to hit a critical step-back three-pointer that put Adelaide nine points ahead, seemingly sealing the game.
- Breakers guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright recorded 21 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, and three steals but missed a crucial free throw late in the game.
- Zylan Cheatham contributed 13 points and eight rebounds, making two important free throws to effectively end the contest with 14 seconds remaining.
- Adelaide's Isaac White added 12 points and four assists, scoring a vital bucket late in the game.
Game Flow and Tactical Notes
The game saw several momentum shifts, with the Breakers mounting a recovery by scoring five quick points and forcing turnovers through an aggressive full-court press to narrow the gap to two points in the last 90 seconds.
"We fought today and our defence gave us the opportunity and then it comes down to the small things, small details," said Breakers coach Petteri Koponen. "It wasn't our night, but we found a way to come back and have chances."
Adelaide now prepares to face Perth, Bryce Cotton's former club, at home on Sunday.
Summary: Despite strong performances and resilience, the New Zealand Breakers’ late scoring drought allowed Adelaide to secure a narrow 83-79 victory in a tightly contested NBL game.
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