BNZ Breakers Crowned Inaugural Ignite Cup Champions in Gold Coast Thriller

The BNZ Breakers have made history on the Gold Coast, claiming the inaugural Disney+ NBL Ignite Cup with a heart-stopping 111–107 victory over the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday night.

In a high-stakes standalone final at the Gold Coast Convention Centre, the Breakers held their nerve through a chaotic finale to secure the Ignite trophy and a A$300,000 winner’s cheque.

While the tournament's unique quarter-scoring system dictated the path to the final, Sunday’s championship clash returned to a traditional NBL format. The Breakers’ frontcourt depth and veteran poise ultimately proved too much for the 36ers.

"This victory is a testament to the character and resilience of this group," said BNZ Breakers Chairman Marc Mitchell.

"To navigate the unique challenges of the Ignite Cup format and then beat Adelaide in a traditional four-quarter battle shows the championship-calibre talent we have in this squad.

"This is a proud day for the club and our new ownership, and we are proud to bring the Ignite Cup back home to our fans across Aotearoa. concluded Mitchell.

The victory marks a significant milestone for the club, adding a fresh piece of silverware to the trophy cabinet alongside their preseason Loggins-Bruton Cup success.

While the win serves as a bittersweet consolation for narrowly missing the NBL playoffs, it validates the club's strategic direction. Under the Ignite Cup’s unique rules, 60% of the $300,000 prize ($180,000) will go directly to the players, rewarding their on-court excellence and intensity throughout the tournament.

Game highlight reel here - WSC Sports 

ENDS