The NZ Breakers have continued their losing run, with a sixth straight defeat in the Australian National Basketball League (ANBL), this time with an improved performance away to the Adelaide 36ers 111-94.
Despite a big effort led by point guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright and a strong showing in the paint, the Breakers were unable to contain an in-form Adelaide offence.
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The Breakers kept in touch at the first quarter at 22-22 and slipped a little in the second but pushed on to outscore their opponents 27-20 in the third quarter but let the game slide in the fourth quarter.
The Breakers struggled to find consistency on both ends of the court as the 36ers shot an impressive 54 percent from the field, including 51 percent from beyond the arc.
The Breakers came out with energy, finding early success inside as Karim Lopez (12 points, six rebounds) and Matt Mooney (19 points, three rebounds) established their presence.
However, defensive lapses allowed the 36ers to capitalise on perimeter looks, with Nick Marshall and Lat Mayen combining for timely three-pointers to keep Adelaide ahead.
With the game well in the balance at three quarter time, the 36ers lifted in the final stages to pull ahead and take the result.
Jackson-Cartwright had a high work rate once again, finishing with 25 points and eight assists while Tacko Fall added grit on the glass with nine points, 10 rebounds and two blocks, helping the Breakers win the rebounding battle 40-37.
Tacko Fall scored nine points from his nearly 25 minutes on the court, but picked up 10 rebounds and a couple of blocks.
Returning from suspensions Adelaide’s Kendric Davis was the standout performer, pouring on 36 points on 62 percent shooting along with nine assists, while Montrezl Harrell made a double-double including 21 points and 10 rebounds.