Breakers defeat Cairns Taipans to secure Ignite Cup points

The New Zealand Breakers defeated the Cairns Taipans 98-75 at Spark Arena on Wednesday. This victory in the Ignite Cup competition allowed the Breakers to collect a maximum of seven points by winning every quarter and the match. The win moves the Breakers to a 2-2 record for the NBL season.

Captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright recorded 27 points and 10 assists, becoming only the fifth player in Breakers history to reach 600 career assists. Jackson-Cartwright scored 18 points in the first half, including five three-pointers. He played all but 4 minutes and 48 seconds of the game.

Support for Jackson-Cartwright included Sam Mennenga, who tallied 18 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Mojave King contributed 14 points, while Carlin Davison scored nine points and recorded seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals. Charles Bediako provided defensive presence with four blocked shots.

Coach Gordy Herbert noted that while Jackson-Cartwright was essential in the first half, the team improved their flow and ball movement in the second half. Herbert stated, "We can’t expect Parker to be Superman every game". The Breakers now face a road stint in Australia, starting with a game against the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday.

How it developed

• Thu 1 Oct, 9:47amCoach Gordy Herbert confirmed that talks are ongoing regarding a roster move to replace the injured Josiah-Jordan James, though no decision has been made.

Where reports differ

• Reports vary on the specific number of points scored by Jackson-Cartwright in the first half, with one stating 18 and another stating 21
• The number of games in the upcoming Australian road trip is cited as either five or seven

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, RNZ and The Post.