Home > Australia > Basketball > National Basketball League

Australia Basketball

 
NBL website: http://www.nbl.com.au/
 
 

MELBOURNE UNITED DRAWS FIRST BLOOD

05/03/2018

 
MELBOURNE UNITED DRAWS FIRST BLOOD
  
 
A brilliant performance by Casper Ware has helped Melbourne United to a thrilling 11 point win over the New Zealand Breakers in the opening Hungry Jack's NBL semi-final at Hisense Arena.

Ware dropped a massive 33 points as Melbourne overcame a slow start to win 88-77 and take a one-nil lead in the best of three series.

All eyes were on Ware and his New Zealand counterpart Edgar Sosa leading into the game after their fiery clash at Hisense Arena last month. But it was Ware who quickly stamped his authority on the contest in an even first half.

But New Zealand's gruelling recent travel schedule seemed to catch up with the visitors in the second half as Melbourne began to control the game. DJ Newbill (19 points) and Shea Ili (16) keeping the Breakers in the contest.

New Zealand fought valiantly as the intensity lifted again in the final quarter before a clutch three pointer from David Barlow sealed the game for Melbourne.

The teams will now face off at Spark Arena on Monday night with New Zealand needing to win to keep its championship hopes alive. 

Box Score

Game Highlights

Melbourne United Press Conference Audio (Dean Vickerman and Tai Wesley)

New Zealand Breakers Press Conference Audio (Paul Henare and Edgar Sosa)

Share this article

Comments:
Be the first to comment!
Login to post comments.