Red-hot BNZ Breakers annihilate United

The Breakers dominated from start to finish to seal their third win in a row, consolidating top spot on the NBL25 ladder.

With a 34-point winning margin, it was the New Zealand side’s fifth biggest win in franchise history, their biggest ever victory over Melbourne United and their first win against the hosts at John Cain Arena since 2018.

The Breakers’ big men set the tone - Sam Mennenga leading the way with a career-high 25 points on 83% shooting, along with four rebounds and two assists.

Mennenga’s inside presence was relentless, combining seamlessly with co-captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright, who contributed 23 points, seven assists, and three rebounds.

17-year-old sensation Karim Lopez was outstanding, notching up his second double-double of the season with 17 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks.

The Breakers’ dominance in the paint was evident, out-rebounding Melbourne 46-25 and holding a significant 69% field goal accuracy inside the arc.

United were further held out by their lack of second-chance points, while the Breakers capitalised on fast breaks, bench depth, and a +19 advantage in efficiency index.

Head coach Petteri Koponen said he was blown away with how his side performed just over 48 hours after their big win over the Adelaide 36ers.

“We played on Saturday so we only had one full day to prepare for this game and get our guys on the same page,” Koponen said.

“The effort tonight was amazing. It was beautiful to watch how they were playing and executing together. They are really enjoying doing things together and it shows on court.

“Melbourne are a really good basketball team and very well coached, but how we performed tonight – I have no words.

“We will celebrate this win, but we know it’s still early in the season. Let’s not stop here, we will recover well and travel to Tasmania and go again from there.”

The BNZ Breakers are back in action this Saturday when they go up against the JackJumpers in Tasmania at 7.30pm (NZT).