Keanu Pinder of the Perth Wildcats is challenged by Parker Jackson-Cartwright of the Breakers during their NBL game in Auckland. Photo: photosport
The Breakers' NBL winning streak has come to a grinding halt following a 108-102 loss to the Perth Wildcats in Auckland.
Having climbed to fifth on the back of four successive wins, the Breakers fell away in the second half against the second-placed visitors, whose rebounding dominance and greater discipline were at the heart of their victory.
It was a disappointing outcome for the home supporters after the Breakers opened up a 14-point lead near the end of the first quarter, with that advantage having been reduced to just five points by halftime.
Perth dominated the third quarter to lead by 18 points at one stage and - from 87-77 up entering the final stanza - were able to hold out a late surge from the hosts.
Accomplished Wildcats guard Bryce Cottong was hard to contain, scoring a game-high 31 points.
The Breakers' scoring was led by Anthony Lamb (27 points) and Zylan Cheatham (25) but their only other team-mate in double figures was Parker Jackson-Cartwright with 11.
Coach Mody Moar's team must regroup for another challenging home game on Friday when they face league leaders Melbourne United.