Boucher reflects on 100 games at Spark Arena

As the BNZ Breakers prepare for their 100th game at Spark Arena on Thursday 16 January, club legend Dillon Boucher reflected on what it meant to be part of the Breakers’ first ever match there.

Boucher, now CEO of Basketball New Zealand, had an illustrious playing career spanning nearly two decades. 

Known for his hustle, leadership, and basketball IQ, he played 220 games in the NBL, including 132 for the Breakers (2003-2005 and 2008-2013). 

Boucher was a cornerstone of the team’s early years, helping lay the foundation for its success and returned to help win three championships with the Breakers during their historic three-peat from 2011-2013.

He vividly remembers the atmosphere of that inaugural game at Spark Arena (formerly known as Vector Arena) on 28 October, 2011 - a moment he regards as a turning point for the team and the sport.

“Our first game there we had about 7,000 people, and that vibe and atmosphere was awesome,” Boucher said.

“One of the things that’s so great about New Zealand is when the fans really get into it, they spur you on and become that sixth man.”

For the Breakers, the move from their long-term base at North Shore Events Centre (now Eventfinda Stadium) to playing at Spark Arena was more than a change of venue, it was a defining moment in the club’s evolution.

“North Shore Events Centre, or Eventfinda Stadium as it is now, has always felt like the spiritual home of the Breakers. But moving to a bigger venue felt like we were finally a professional team and had evolved and grown.”

The shift to Spark Arena was representative of the Breakers’ growing ambitions and the rising prominence of basketball in New Zealand. 

The larger venue brought an unmatched atmosphere, with Boucher acknowledging the pivotal role fans have played in the team’s rise.

“Basketball crowds are one of a kind. There’s always something happening, there’s constant action, and people can get into the game. There’s so much excitement, and people find their voice. For me, one of the things that makes basketball so special are the crowds and people who get behind it.”

The Breakers’ journey to building a successful history in the NBL was anything but straightforward. The team endured early struggles but eventually broke through, capturing their first championship in the 2010/2011 season.

“The first championship was massive not only for New Zealand but for the team to believe that we are good enough to compete in this league.

“It’s a tough league, and those that have been Breakers fans from the start know how hard it is. That first championship showed the Australians this New Zealand team is the real deal.”

The passion of the fans at Spark Arena has been a constant source of inspiration for the Breakers over the years. 

Boucher highlighted the impact of the crowd on the team’s performance during his time playing for the team.

“For us, there were games where we weren’t playing well, and then CJ Bruton would hit a three, or Gary Wilkinson or Cedric Jackson would make an amazing play, and all of a sudden the crowd would switch on,” he said. 

“The lift playing in Spark Arena gives you is huge. That crowd really played a big part in some of our wins - it really gets rocking in there.”

As the Breakers gear up for their milestone clash at Spark Arena, the connection between the team and its supporters remains stronger than ever. 

The venue has witnessed countless iconic moments, from buzzer-beaters to championship celebrations, all fuelled by the energy of a passionate fanbase.

The BNZ Breakers host Tasmania JackJumpers in their 100th game at Spark Arena on Thursday 16 January, in a match that also sees the much-anticipated return of co-captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright from suspension.

Tickets for the match are available here