Parker Jackson-Cartwright (C) of the Breakers attempts a lay-up against the Cairns Taipans. Photo: Photosport
New import guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright poured in 25 points as the Breakers opener their NBL campaign with an encouraging 98-87 win over the Cairns Taipans in Auckland.
Forward Finn Delany provided scoring support with 18 points in his return to the club as the Breakers recovered from a sluggish start, pulling clear against the Queenslanders with a dominanant third quarter.
It was an impressive opening for the Breakers, beaten finalists last year, with a number of new faces settling quickly to the game plan set by coach Mody Maor - including Jackson-Cartwright and fellow-imports, Justinian Jessup and Zylan Cheatham.
The loudest cheer of the night was reserved for veteran captain Tom Abercrombie, 36, who was playing his 400th game in his 16th season with the club.
The Breakers were 46-43 ahead at halftime, having trailed at quarter-time and pulled 77-61 clear heading into the final stanza.
Injuries meant the home side were without guard Will McDowell-White (hand) and Lithuanian Next Star Mantas Rubstavicius (groin).
Their second game is at home to Brisbane on Thursday.
- RNZ