Bullets hand BNZ Breakers first loss of season

The BNZ Breakers have been handed their first loss of the season, going down 84-73 to Brisbane Bullets on Thursday night.

The Breakers showed flashes of brilliance and created plenty of chances but were unable to get their shots to drop down the stretch.

Co-captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright put in another impressive performance with 20 points, seven rebounds and six assists, keeping his side within striking distance throughout the entire match.

Sam Mennenga had a productive night, contributing 15 points shooting 7-of-13 from the field and battling hard on defence with five rebounds.

The game remained going into the fourth quarter, with Brisbane pulling away in the final minutes led by James Batemon who finished with a game-high 21 points.

Head coach Petteri Koponen said his side were disappointed with the result but know the areas they need to improve.

“We had our chances to win this game. We created quality looks and the effort was there,” he said.

“Sometimes it felt we were just a step too slow to react but it’s basketball and sometimes that happens. Full credit to Brisbane they were better today and deserved to win.

“We play again on Saturday against a very good team Perth. These guys all want to compete and get ready for the next game – I know playing in front of our home fans will give us a lot of energy so we look forward to that.”

The BNZ Breakers are back in action this Saturday night on their home court at Spark Arena in Auckland against Perth Wildcats.