Breakers forward Sam Mennenga. Photo: photosport
The Breakers have produced the standout performance of their stuttering season - thrashing the Illawarra Hawks 102-60 on Friday night, breathing life into their NBL campaign.
After losing seven of their first nine games, the Breakers found their groove against the defending champions in Wollongong on Friday night, led by Sam Mennenga's 21 points and 11 rebounds.
Guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright says they were driven by their previous performance - a shock loss at home to Brisbane, when they blew a 24-point lead.
The Auckland side didn't make the same mistake this time, opening up a commanding halftime lead of 18 points before putting their foot down, winning the third quarter 27-10 to ensure their first season win on the road.
An improved defensive showing was at the heart of victory, with Mennenga particularly impressive at both ends of the court in the first half.
They shot out of the blocks with the first eight points and then the last six of the first quarter to lead 31-18.
Rob Baker II produced his best Breakers performance, sinking 19 points, sinking four of eight three-point attempts.
Karim Lopez also had 14 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals while Izaiah Brockington contributed 12 points, and Jackson-Cartwright 11.
The Breakers will head to Christchurch for their next game, against the Adelaide 36ers on Thursday.
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