NZ Breakers Defeat Tasmania JackJumpers to Boost Playoff Hopes

The NZ Breakers solidified their position in the Australian National Basketball League (ANBL) playoff race with a commanding 99-86 victory over the Tasmania JackJumpers at Spark Arena in Auckland. This win marks the Breakers’ fourth triumph in five games, propelling them into playoff contention for the first time this season.

The Breakers started strong, scoring the first nine points of the match and quickly establishing a double-digit lead. By the end of the first quarter, the home team held a 17-point advantage. Although the JackJumpers managed to narrow the gap to just two points at one stage, the Breakers led 52-41 at halftime.

As the third quarter commenced, both teams faced challenges with foul trouble. Breakers’ players, including NBA prospect Karim Lopez and Tall Blacks star Sam Mennenga, each had three personal fouls and had to begin the period on the bench. Nevertheless, the Breakers maintained their momentum, with Americans Rob Baker contributing 13 points and Izaiah Brockington leading all scorers with 22 points.

The return of Tai Webster, who stepped in as an injury replacement for Izayah Le’afa, injected fresh energy into the Breakers’ lineup. Despite their propensity for relinquishing large leads this season, the Breakers were determined to hold on to their advantage.

Lopez made an immediate impact off the bench, sinking a three-pointer on his first attempt. Mennenga electrified the crowd with a powerful dunk, converting a three-point play from the free-throw line. Entering the final quarter with a 10-point lead, the Breakers faced a spirited effort from the JackJumpers, who refused to back down.

With five minutes remaining, Breakers guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright intercepted American Tyger Campbell, converting the steal into an easy lay-up that extended the lead to 12 points. The margin grew to 13 points with just three minutes left, but the JackJumpers continued to press, cutting the deficit to single digits.

A crucial three-pointer from Jackson-Cartwright with 1 minute and 40 seconds on the clock provided breathing room for the Breakers. He later assisted Lopez for a final three-point shot, sealing the victory. Jackson-Cartwright finished the game with 16 points and 12 assists, while Brockington’s performance highlighted the team’s offensive depth.

Despite their efforts, the JackJumpers could not overcome the Breakers’ lead. American forward Bryce Hamilton led Tasmania with 21 points, but it was not enough to secure a win.

Looking ahead, the Breakers will travel to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix on March 2, 2024, as they aim to continue their playoff push.