The New Zealand Breakers have scored a dramatic 98-92 overtime victory over Melbourne United.
Tied at 83 after four quarters on Friday night, United went ahead by four in overtime before back-to-back three-pointers from Breakers big man Robert Loe put the visitors in front 94-92 with less than one minute on the clock.
Tom Abercrombie sealed the win with a breakaway dunk, finishing with 17 points that included 5-of-6 from long range at Hisense Arena.
Alex Pledger recorded 20 points and 10 rebounds while veteran guard kirk Penney chipped in with 17.
With key players Chris Goulding and Todd Blanchfield sidelined, United turned to reserve guard Kyle Adnam (19 points) and Tai Wesley (17) but were unable to prevent a third-straight defeat for the home side.
The Breakers dominated early with strong rebounding and accurate outside shooting to build a 27-13 lead late in the opening quarter.
But the introduction of Adnam sparked the home side, the reserve guard scoring 10 straight points in a 13-0 United run.
David Andersen's hook shot saw Melbourne take their first lead of the match with three minutes left in the half but two quick baskets from import forward Akil Mitchell helped New Zealand go into the main break ahead 41-40.
United kept up the pace in the third quarter with Adnam, Wesley and Nate Tomlinson hitting from outside in a 19-6 surge.
Down by eight at the final change, Abercrombie caught fire with four three-pointers to give the Breaker a 83-81 lead before Ramone Moore sent the game into overtime.
The Breakers will aim for three straight wins when they host the Brisbane Bullets on Sunday, and Melbourne hit the road to face the Illawarra Hawks.
Breakers coach Paul Henare felt confident that his veteran leaders would find a way to win despite at times not being at their best.
"We've got guys that have won championships and have been through the ringer in multiple situations," said Henare. "You've got to have that level of trust with your guys.
"Obviously we needed to dig deep and guys needed to step up ... but happy for them to get the result that they deserved."
Despite being unhappy with the outcome, Melbourne coach Dean Demopoulos could not fault the effort of his undermanned team.
"My guys played as well as they could but the other team was better," said Demopoulos.
"We had opportunities to win the game in regulation but couldn't get it done."
Demopoulos praised young guard Kyle Adnam who played a major role in keeping United in the match.
"When he got his opportunity, he made the most out of it ... it just wasn't quite enough," he said.
Share
