THE ADELAIDE 36ers are looking to continue on from their strong start tonight as they go up against the New Zealand Breakers in a third place vs. ninth place matchup, kicking off another round in the 2025/26 National Basketball League (NBL) season.

The 36ers have started their season with a 6-2 record, and tonight they are seeking another win coming off of narrowly beating the Illawarra Hawks on Sunday, claiming victory 90-88. To no surprise, NBL legend Bryce Cotton has been exceptional, so far having one of the best seasons in the league with averages of 28.8 points and 6.4 assists on an impressive 49 per cent efficiency.

The point guard matchup between both Cotton and Parker Jackson-Cartwright will be one to watch, with the latter leading the league in assists per game. Other players to look out for include breakout star Flynn Cameron, big man Isaac Humphries and Zylan Cheatham, who will play against his alma mater.

The Breakers, while being the ninth ranked team in the NBL are seeking another win after destroying the struggling Illawarra Hawks team in a 42-point victory last weekend before the latter regained their championship form.

Sitting near the bottom of the ladder, the Breakers have found Sam Mennenga to have his breakout year, now truly becoming arguably the best power forward in the entire league, averaging a strong 18 points and eight rebounds per game on 54 per cent efficiency.

With the leadership of both Jackson-Cartwright and Mennenga, the Breakers are looking better and better each game that passes, and could potentially find themselves with an upset win over the 36ers if they can continue their form. Next Star Karim Lopez has impressed so far this season, averaging 10.4 points and six rebounds per game, alongside his incredible defensive performances.

Expect an entertaining game tonight, and New Zealand will have the home court advantage, so anything could come out from this battle. Alongside this matchup we will also see the Tasmania JackJumpers take on the SEM Phoenix at home.