Breakers coach Gordie Herbert criticizes team performance after loss

New Zealand Breakers head coach Gordie Herbert has publicly criticized his team, labeling their first-half performance against the Adelaide 36ers as “absolutely pathetic” and “ridiculous.” Following a 108-101 home loss at Auckland’s Spark Arena, the Breakers have fallen to second-last on the NBL ladder with a 4-5 season record.

Herbert, who recently returned to the sidelines after an illness, expressed extreme disappointment with the team's lack of energy and cohesion during the first 20 minutes of the game. He noted that the team lacked fight and togetherness, playing “me and I” basketball rather than working as a unit. The coach indicated that the poor effort resulted in certain players receiving no court time in the second half.

The loss follows a challenging period for the Breakers, who have played their last five games on the road in cities including Perth, Tasmania, and Cairns. The team now prepares to host the Adelaide 36ers again, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between Bryce Cotton and Parker Jackson-Cartwright.