New Zealand Breakers NBL Profile: Five things you need to know

The New Zealand Breakers, based in Auckland, are one of the most successful and well-known teams in the National Basketball League (NBL). Founded in 2003, they are the only team from outside Australia to compete in the NBL and have quickly become a dominant force in the league.

The Breakers have built a rich legacy, becoming one of the NBL's most successful franchises in the 2010s, with multiple championships and a strong following in New Zealand and across the league.

Formation and early struggles (2003–2009)

The New Zealand Breakers were established in 2003, becoming the first team from outside of Australia to join the NBL. As a new team, the Breakers faced a tough challenge in trying to compete with the more established Australian teams.

In their early years, they struggled to find success on the court, finishing near the bottom of the standings in their first few seasons.

Despite the difficult start, the Breakers laid a solid foundation with a strong focus on building a team that could represent New Zealand basketball on the professional stage. They worked to attract local talent, as well as experienced international players, in an effort to raise their competitive level.

The Breakers also began building a passionate fan base in Auckland, known for their loyal and vocal support, which would play a significant role in the team’s future success.

Rise to dominance: The championship era (2010–2015)

The 2010s marked the New Zealand Breakers’ rise to dominance in the NBL. Under the leadership of head coach Andrej Lemanis, the Breakers became a powerhouse team, winning their first NBL Championship in the 2010-11 season. This victory was a historic moment, as the Breakers became the first New Zealand team to win the NBL title. Led by key players such as Kirk Penney, CJ Bruton, and Tom Abercrombie, the Breakers quickly established themselves as a team to be reckoned with.

The Breakers’ success didn’t stop there. They went on to win three consecutive championships, claiming titles in 2012 and 2013, cementing their legacy as one of the greatest dynasties in NBL history. Their dominance during this period was built on a combination of strong team chemistry, effective coaching, and clutch performances in key moments.

In 2015, the Breakers won their fourth NBL championship, defeating the Cairns Taipans in the Grand Final series. This victory further solidified their place among the most successful franchises in NBL history. Players such as Cedric Jackson, Mika Vukona, and Alex Pledger were instrumental in the Breakers' championship runs, contributing to their reputation as one of the toughest teams in the league.

Challenging years and rebuilding (2016–2019)

After their 2015 championship win, the Breakers faced a period of transition. Long-time coach Andrej Lemanis departed to coach the Australian national team, and several key players from their championship-winning squads retired or moved to other teams. As a result, the Breakers struggled to maintain their dominance and went through a rebuilding phase.

Despite these challenges, the Breakers remained competitive, making several playoff appearances in the years that followed. However, they were unable to recapture the championship form they had enjoyed during their dominant run in the early 2010s. The team continued to work on developing young talent and attracting international players to keep their roster competitive.

Recent years and return to contention (2020–Present)

In recent years, the New Zealand Breakers have been rebuilding and looking to return to championship contention. The team has brought in new coaching staff, including former NBA player Dan Shamir, and has focused on recruiting young, talented players from both New Zealand and abroad.

The Breakers have also embraced the NBL Next Stars Program, which aims to develop top young international prospects before they enter the NBA Draft. One of the most notable players to come through this program was RJ Hampton, a highly touted American prospect who played for the Breakers during the 2019-20 season before being selected in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted their ability to play home games in New Zealand, the Breakers have continued to build a competitive roster and remain focused on returning to the top of the NBL. The combination of young talent, experienced players, and strong leadership has set the foundation for future success.

Five Fast Facts about the New Zealand Breakers

1. Founded in 2003: The New Zealand Breakers were established in 2003 and are the only NBL team based outside of Australia.
2. Four-Time NBL Champions: The Breakers have won four NBL championships, with titles in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2015, making them one of the most successful teams in NBL history.
3. First Non-Australian Champions: In 2011, the Breakers became the first non-Australian team to win the NBL championship, marking a significant achievement in the league’s history.
4. Dynasty of the Early 2010s: The Breakers’ three consecutive championships from 2011 to 2013, under head coach Andrej Lemanis, solidified them as one of the greatest dynasties in NBL history.
5. Home Games at Spark Arena: The Breakers play their home games at Spark Arena in Auckland, which has a capacity of around 9,000 fans and provides one of the best atmospheres in the NBL.

The New Zealand Breakers have come a long way since their humble beginnings in 2003. With four championships and a legacy of success, they have cemented their place as one of the NBL’s elite teams. As they continue to rebuild and develop young talent, the Breakers remain a strong force in Australian and New Zealand basketball, with a bright future ahead.