NZ Breakers preseason form continues

The New Zealand Breakers secured a narrow 93-90 preseason victory over Nagasaki Velca in Japan, overcoming a physical challenge from the home team in front of a loud, capacity crowd at Happiness Arena.

Despite traveling with only nine available players due to Reuben Te Rangi's illness and the cautious omission of Max Darling and Parker Jackson-Cartwright ahead of the NBL season opener, the Breakers relied on strong individual performances. American center Rob Baker II led the scoring with 26 points in his team debut, supported by Sam Mennenga's 25 points, while Carlin Davison contributed 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals.

Nagasaki was powered by American import Stanley Johnson's game-high 37 points, with former Breakers Jarrell Brantley adding 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, and Akil Mitchell contributing 6 points and 6 rebounds.