Sport

Breakers pipped by one in dramatic fashion

22:57 pm on 12 January 2024

The Breakers have been beaten by one point against Melbourne United. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The New Zealand Breakers have suffered a heartbreaking 82-81 loss to Melbourne United.

Matthew Dellavedova nailed a clutch free throw with seconds remaining to claim the victory in dramatic and controversial fashion.

The Breakers were up 44-39 at half time, before finding themselves all square at 81-all in final minute.

Melbourne were then fouled and Dellavedova put his side ahead.

Breakers import Zylan Cheatham Cheatham grabbed a defensive rebound and then called a timeout.

However, NBL rules stipulate you can't call a timeout during live play, calling curtains for the Breakers.

Anthony Lamb top scored for the Breakers with 22, with Parker Jackson-Cartwright sinking 21.