Jackson Parker-Cartwright put in a tireless effort for the Breakers in their loss to Melbourne. Photo: John Davidson / www.photosport.nz
The New Zealand Breakers may have to win both their final regular season games to ensure a post season after going down 94-81 to Melbourne United.
The Breakers are in the sixth and final playoff spot but have little room for error.
Still dealing with the loss of star Anthony Lamb to a season ending injury, the Breakers could manage only 17 points in the second quarter, and 16 in the third which saw them chasing the hosts.
Their radar from long range was off shooting seven from 23 outside of the paint.
Jackson Parker-Cartwright was relentless throughout all four quarters, sinking a game high 24 points, making five assists and two rebounds, but it was not enough for the Breakers despite winning the final period 26-16.
Zylan Cheatham was a menace under the glass for Melbourne, claiming 12 rebounds, while Finn Delany, recently returning from injury, was quiet in his 20 minutes on the floor.
It's been six years since the Breakers won at at John Cain Arena in Melbourne, losing 20 of their last 23.
The Breakers next meet the Brisbane Bullets on Friday and the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday.