Breakers look to bounce back against Bullets

The BNZ Breakers are ready for their next challenge as they gear up for a run of five games in 11 days, starting with the Brisbane Bullets on Wednesday night.

Coming off the back of a loss to Perth Wildcats in Round 15, the Breakers are determined to make a late season charge.

Starring in the match with 28 points and six assists before being fouled out of the game, Matt Mooney said the loss to Perth was tough to take.

“It’s extremely frustrating. But we still had opportunities to win the game,” he said.

“We know the situation and we’re out of the playoffs right now, so we’ve got to string a couple of wins together.”

The absence of key playmaker Parker Jackson-Cartwright, who was serving the second game of a five-match suspension, was felt in the defeat while the team also lost Mojave King to injury in the second quarter.

“It’s been the story of the whole season - guys have been out. I don’t know how many games we’ve had our full roster so it’s next man up mentality. We know and believe we’re good enough to beat every team in the league.”

Looking ahead to the Brisbane matchup, the Breakers know the challenges won’t ease up. 

“With Parker out, guys have got to step up. I certainly feel that responsibility, and hopefully we can get it done in the next one.”

The Breakers will again lean on Tacko Fall’s dominant presence in the paint, which has proven to be a game-changer. 

Against the Wildcats Fall scored 28 points, along with nine rebounds and four blocks, while he also drew 10 fouls.

“Having Tacko, he brings so much attention and they’re so worried about him that it opens up driving lanes for the rest of us and I’ve been able to benefit off that. He’s a great teammate, I can’t say enough good about Tacko.”

The Breakers take to the court against the Bullets at 9.30pm (NZT) on Wednesday 8 January as they look to rebuild some momentum with just nine regular season games remaining.