COMIKNG off a devastating loss last week in the final seconds to the Tasmania JackJumpers, the New Zealand Breakers are in need of a spark to finish off their season strong to make that last spot for finals, and will face off against the SEM Phoenix in the NBL tonight.

With the JackJumpers being directly above the Breakers in sixth position, a win on Sunday would have put them in that finals contention, but they were unable to get it done. With the tragic losses to Rob Baker and Sam Mennenga, their finals hopes seem to be drifting slowly away, but a win against a top team at home might just ignite that much-needed morale.

The last time these teams matched up was on January 21st, with the Phoenix securing their home win 123-116, as Wes Iwundu caught fire for 23 points, while Ian Clark scored 24 off the bench. Sam Mennenga was a dominant force during that game, having a monster 28-point performance, as well as Parker Jackson-Cartwright putting up 26 points and nine assists.

The duo almost got it done, but the Phoenix were on fire all game, and the Breakers struggled to catch up. Izaiah Brockington has been a great third option, capable of catching fire and scoring 20 points in a game, as he did against Tasmania. In all of his games in 2026, he has been averaging 18 points a game, while shooting well over 50 per cent from the field, which is rare, especially considering his amount of outside shots.

The Breakers struggled to contain Clark, who, off the bench, was aggressive offensively, scoring 24 points with five three-pointers. That has seemed to be the main strength for the Phoenix, as they have multiple guys who can score the ball and pour in 20 points, which can be the difference maker between a win and a loss.

The Phoenix were scorching all game, nonstop draining threes to finish with 18 made, shooting an incredible 42.9 per cent. This must be the main focus for the Breakers’ defence, as if they leave guys open at the three they will be punished.

New Zealand will need to come into the matchup with heads high, as another loss could be the difference maker between making the finals or not. For the Phoenix, while they have secured a finals spot, the red-hot Sydney Kings have overtaken them as the second-placed team on the table, so South East Melbourne will look to stamp its dominance and get that spot back.