BNZ Breakers To Bring NBL Action Back To Hamilton ‍

BNZ Breakers are set to make Hamilton their Second home during NBL27, with today’s announcement of two home games at Claudelands Arena.

The BNZ Breakers will take on the Tasmania JackJumpers on Friday 18 December 2026 and the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday 4 February 2027 at the Hamilton venue.

BNZ Breakers CEO Troy Georgiu said the club explored multiple options for their regional games and are delighted to be returning to a venue that proved successful last season.

“We have enjoyed building a great relationship with the Hamilton City Council and Claudelands Arena.  The location taps into a significant basketball fan base in the wider Waikato/Bay of Plenty region, Claudelands is a great facility, and we enjoyed success there last season with a memorable win over Sydney.”

Hamilton Mayor Tim Macindoe said he’s looking forward to seeing Claudelands Arena buzzing when the BNZ Breakers take the court.

“It’s fantastic to welcome the Breakers back to Hamilton for two games at Claudelands. Our city loves getting behind top-level sport, and these games are a great opportunity for families and basketball fans to enjoy the excitement right here in our city. These events also provide a welcome boost for local businesses, retailer and hospitality providers and the wider visitor economy,” said Mayor Tim.  

Dillon Boucher, four-time Australian NBLchampion and current President of Basketball Operations at the BNZ Breakers,said returning to Hamilton made sense on multiple levels.

“We had such a good time in Hamilton last year. The crowd was great, we got the result, and it was a no-brainer to comeback. Hamilton gets plenty of top-level rugby and cricket, so we’re excited to bring more basketball into the mix for the fans.”

Georgiu says there are multiple factors indeciding where the club will take regional games, including venue availability,NBL compliance regulations and the travel schedule of the opposition team.  

“We remain committed to taking the BNZ Breakers around the country and showcasing all that the NBL has to offer to basketball fans and building our links with the wider New Zealand community.

“Hamilton is a great option for us and was able to tick all the boxes on the dates set for these games and we look forward to delivering two great events for fans in the Waikato community this season.”

Tickets will be on sale early next week. BNZ Breakers members will receive a priority period to purchase tickets to both games. Fans are encouraged to keep an eye out on BNZ Breakers socials for more information over the coming days.  

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