Breakers Suffer Late Collapse in 78-70 Loss to Sydney Kings

The New Zealand Breakers faced a disappointing setback in their match against the Sydney Kings on October 7, 2023, suffering a 78-70 defeat. This loss marks a troubling moment for the Breakers, particularly as they struggled during the final quarter, allowing the Kings to pull ahead decisively.

In the game held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, the Breakers entered the fourth quarter with a slim lead. However, a series of missed shots and turnovers derailed their momentum. The Sydney Kings capitalized on this, scoring 27 points in the final period compared to the Breakers’ 12. This late-game collapse has dropped the Breakers to the bottom of the National Basketball League standings, now sharing that position with the Tasmania JackJumpers.

The Breakers started the game strong, with a solid performance in the first half. They showcased their offensive capabilities, leading 58-51 after three quarters. Yet, as the clock wound down, they could not maintain their energy or focus.

Coach Mody Maor expressed his frustration post-game, highlighting the need for improved performance in high-pressure situations. “We had our chances, but we weren’t able to execute when it mattered the most,” he stated. The team’s inability to close out the game raises concerns about their consistency and resilience.

Key players for the Breakers included Finn Delany, who scored 16 points, and Tom Vekona, contributing 12 points and 7 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the team could not overcome the Kings’ defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter.

The Sydney Kings, led by Dejan Vasiljevic, who tallied 20 points, took full advantage of the Breakers’ late-game struggles. Their ability to rally in the final minutes has solidified their position in the upper tier of the league.

Looking ahead, the Breakers will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next match. The team aims to address the issues that led to their late-game fade and to restore confidence as they begin to navigate a challenging season.

As the league progresses, the Breakers hope to find a way to translate their early-game success into complete performances. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their trajectory for the remainder of the season.