Breakers’ Late Scoring Drought Costs Them Against 36ers
The New Zealand Breakers appeared ready to upset Adelaide but fell victim to a six-minute scoring drought in the final quarter, allowing the 36ers to secure an 83-79 victory in Christchurch.
Game Progression
The Breakers held a slim two-point lead entering the fourth quarter but managed only two free throws while missing 14 straight field-goal attempts in the first eight minutes of the final term. Bryce Cotton contributed 23 points and six assists for the 36ers, including a late step-back three-pointer that gave Adelaide a nine-point cushion and seemed to seal the win ahead of their upcoming match against Perth.
Late Game Effort
Despite difficulties, the Breakers rallied with five quick points by applying full-court pressure, closing the gap to two points in the final 90 seconds. The game featured intense fouling from both sides.
"We fought today and our defence gave us the opportunity and then it comes down to the small things, small details," Breakers coach Petteri Koponen said. "It wasn't our night, but we found a way to come back and have chances."
Key Performances
- Zylan Cheatham scored 13 points and grabbed eight rebounds, making crucial free throws in the final 14 seconds to effectively secure the win.
- Breakers guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright posted a near triple-double with 21 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, and three steals but missed a key free throw late in the game.
- Isaac White contributed 12 points and four assists for the 36ers, including a vital basket late in the contest.
Upcoming Match
The victory boosts Adelaide’s confidence ahead of their Sunday home game against Perth, the former club of Bryce Cotton.
Summary: The Breakers’ late fourth-quarter scoring drought erased their lead, allowing Adelaide to edge them out 83-79 in a tightly contested NBL matchup.