Isaac
Years ago
Funny Sixers beaten by 19 in NZ
The word just in is that the Sixers have gone down by 19 in NZ. Apparently our defense wasn't very good, but that's all I know.
(Updated)
Found an article on stuff.co.nz:
The Harvey Norman Breakers were certainly a class above Adelaide last night, although coach Frank Arsego warned the Australian side would be a different proposition in a fortnight in the season opener in Auckland.
"But I saw enough tonight to know we'll be pretty competitive this season," he said.
"To be honest, I'm very pleased how quickly the guys are developing on court. There's a good understanding between players already. I wanted to improve on the first two games and we did."
Arsego was also happy with the crowd.
"It's always good to come to centres like New Plymouth. The crowd got in behind us and I liked the way the fans responded when guys came off court."
The Breakers led 25-23 after the first quarter, then scored 10 points in the opening two minutes of the second quarter to break clear. It was a lead the Breakers never surrendered and by halftime they led 48-37.
In a high-scoring third quarter, the Breakers pulled away to 76-58. And despite the crowd willing the Breakers on in the final few minutes, they couldn't quite crack the century.
But for most fans, it didn't matter. They had come along to be entertained and they were. From the rousing renditions of the Australian and New Zealand anthems by New Plymouth's Anthony Joines to the break-dancing at halftime.
The Breakers had the better understanding on court, working the ball in to the key before taking the shot. The Adelaide players, on the other hand, put up more shots, but struggled to find the hoop.
The Breakers' new big man, Ben Pepper, scored a game-high 29 points, with another newcomer, Shawn Redhage, and Tall Black Aaron Olsen both scoring 17 points.
Adelaide's highest scorers were American Willie Farley and Dusty Rychart both with 17, while Oscar Forman scored 15.
