New Zealand Breakers vs South East Melbourne Phoenix NBL Game Preview

October 24, 2024 | 5:30PM (AEDT) Wolfbrook Arena

New Zealand Breakers vs South East Melbourne Phoenix NBL Game Preview

The clash between the New Zealand Breakers and South East Melbourne Phoenix sets the stage for an exciting battle, with both teams eager to build momentum early in the season. The Breakers, known for their gritty play and depth, will be looking to take advantage of home court, while the Phoenix aim to make a statement on the road after an impressive win last start against cross town rivals, Melbourne United.

Key Matchups

Sam Mennenga & Freddie Gillespie (NZ) vs. Matt Hurt & Jordan Hunter (SEM):

The frontcourt battle will be a critical aspect of this matchup. Mennenga & Gillespie offer a mix of athleticism and rebounding that bolsters the Breakers’ interior game. Jordan Hunter, a force in the paint, will need to step up alongside the versatile Matt Hurt, who can score from multiple spots on the court. This matchup could very well determine which team controls the boards and sets the tone inside.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright (NZ) vs. Nathan Sobey (SEM):

Parker Jackson-Cartwright has been one of the Breakers' key offensive catalysts with his ability to score and facilitate. Sobey, meanwhile, is the floor general for the Phoenix, known for his playmaking and clutch performances but has unable to put it all together this season so far. If Sobey can control the tempo and find open looks for his teammates, the Phoenix can exploit the Breakers’ defense. Jackson-Cartwright's defensive prowess, on the other hand, will be essential in containing Sobey's impact.

Key Stats

New Zealand Breakers:

• New Zealand has won each of its last seven home games.

• Parker Jackson-Cartwright has scored 18+ points in 12 of New Zealand's last 13 games.

• Matt Mooney has recorded three or more assists in each of New Zealand's last four games.

• New Zealand has allowed fewer than 90 points in each of its last eight games.

South East Melbourne Phoenix:

• SE Melbourne ranks 10th in the league for rebound percentage this season (45.4%).

• SE Melbourne snapped a nine-game losing streak with last week's win over United.

• Matt Hurt has scored 16+ points in each of South East Melbourne's last six games.

• Eight of South East Melbourne's last nine matches have gone UNDER the total match points line.

Why New Zealand Breakers Win

The Breakers’ strength lies in their defence and playmaking, which will be crucial in controlling the tempo and limiting the Phoenix’s offensive flow. If Mennenga and Gillespie dominate the paint and Jackson-Cartwright can spark the offense with efficient shooting and playmaking, New Zealand will be in a strong position to win. Their ability to force turnovers and create transition opportunities also gives them an edge.

Why South East Melbourne Phoenix Win

South East Melbourne’s hopes rest on the shoulders of Matt Hurt and Nathan Sobey. If Sobey can orchestrate their offense and get their shooters in rhythm, they have the firepower to match the Breakers. Hurt and Hunter's versatility will need to create mismatches in the Breakers' frontcourt. A focused defensive effort, especially on the perimeter, will also be key to disrupting New Zealand's offence.

Expect a physical and closely contested game, with the Breakers' home-court advantage and defensive acumen giving them a slight edge. However, if the Phoenix can find their groove offensively, particularly from beyond the arc, they could pull off a vital road victory.