Jonah Bolden scored a crucial triple for the Breakers. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
An irresistible late 11-point surge has landed the New Zealand Breakers a two-from-two record early in the Australian NBL season.
The Breakers came from behind to beat South East Melbourne Phoenix 81-79 at Spark Arena in Auckland on Sunday night.
The Phoenix were leading 70-67 with seven minutes to go, but the Breakers then let loose, with Jonah Bolden's triple topping off their 11-point run.
The Phoenix rallied, narrowing down the margin to a point with under six seconds left, but the Breakers held firm at the death.
Imports for the Breakers made a strong impression, with Parker Jackson-Cartwright leading the scoring with 20 points, ably backed up new guard Matt Mooney with 15.
Sam Mennenga chipped in with 11 points and nine rebounds, while Boden had eight points, including the vital triple.
It has been an impressive start for the Breakers under new coach Petteri Koponen, while the result leaves the Phoenix 0 from 3.
The Breakers are now second on the NBL table, delighting Kopenen.
"I'm proud of these guys. It wasn't always pretty today but sometimes basketball is like that and we found a way.
"Everyone who stepped on the court did their part and it's a nice feeling to take the win."
The Breakers now head to the US for exhibition games against NBA sides the Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder.