Singed By The Blaze
Tagged in: NZ Breakers
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Aussies Tony Ronaldson and Oscar Forman had 17 points apiece as the Harvey Norman NZ Breakers were pipped 85-84 by Australian NBL newcomers Gold Coast Blaze in the fourth match of their pre-season Australian tour.
The Breakers trailed early, conceding the first seven points of the game, but rallied to lead 26-25 after the opening quarter. Ahead by 12 points at halftime, their outside shooters went cold in the third period, allowing Gold Coast back into the contest.
The NZ franchise still had an advantage early in the final term, but former Breaker Ben Melmeth scored consecutive baskets midway through to edge his new team ahead for good. Forman hit a trey on the buzzer to close within a point Ö too little, too late.
For the Blaze, NZ Tall Black Casey Frank had 11 points and seven rebounds off the bench, while Waikato Pistons import Jason Crowe led all scorers with 22 points (7/10 FG), four assists and two steals.
Breakers coach Andrej Lemanis said the defensive effort was again top drawer, but the team needed to work on ball security and structure on attack.
The Breakers have one more match, against the champion Brisbane Bullets, before returning home on Wednesday.
Their opening NBL match of the season is against the Cairns Taipans at the North Shore Events Centre on Thursday, September 20.
Australian NBL Pre-Season
Gold Coast Blaze 85 Harvey Norman NZ Breakers 84 (Tony Ronaldson 17, Oscar Forman 17, Paul Henare 12)
