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Breakers hand Sydney Kings second straight NBL loss

3 minute read

With Americans Parker Jackson-Cartwright and Matt Mooney playing starring roles, New Zealand have handed the Sydney Kings a second successive NBL loss.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright has consigned the Sydney Kings to more misery on their home deck, the American guard steering the New Zealand Breakers to a 93-89 victory.

Jackson-Cartwright starred with 34 points in the 2023-24 playoffs to send the Kings packing, and again relished the hostile reception at Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday afternoon in a see-sawing affair.

The defeat was the second straight for star-studded Sydney and leaves them sinking down the NBL ladder from third spot with a 5-5 win-loss record.

Looking to bounce back from their shock loss to an undermanned Perth outfit, the Kings got off to a strong start and led by as much as 12 during the second quarter.

However, Jackson-Cartwright and shooting guard Matt Mooney hauled the visitors into the lead, taking advantage of some clunky play by the Kings at both ends of the court.

The diminutive Californian finished with 21 points while fellow American Mooney tipped in 24.

New Zealand turned an 18-25 deficit into a 49-45 lead by half-time thanks to two late buckets by Jackson-Cartwright.

The Breakers still managed to hang on to a three-point lead, 72-69, heading into the final term.

Despite their shooting woes, at just 39 per cent from the floor, the Kings remained in touch thanks to their New Zealand international Izayah Le'afa, who finished with 23 points.

But with foul trouble not helping their cause, they were unable to close the margin, with the Breakers back in the winners' circle following the surprise defeat to the struggling South East Melbourne Phoenix.

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