MK Breakers began their NBL Division 2 campaign in resounding fashion as they overcame Richmond Knights 103-73 on Saturday evening.
Having earned promotion last season, the Breakers would make their debut league outing against Richmond Knights – who placed fifth in NBL Division 2 last year.
The Breakers were the quickest out of the blocks as they raced into an early 5-0 lead with Andre Arrisol and Jordan Spencer both getting off the mark in the early stages.
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The Knights, however, were making it difficult for Breakers to make any headway in the clash as they clawed back to difference before taking the lead half-way through the first quarter.
Breakers, however, were ruthless with their scoring and resolute in their defending as they scored 17 points to Richmond’s six to close out the first quarter.
The hosts dominance continued into the second quarter as they amassed an impressive 18-point lead with help from Blayne Freckleton, Dante Langley and Mike New Jr’s three pointers.
The 300+ in attendance at Bletchley Leisure Centre were treated to an impressive First Half as Billy Beddow’s side led 50-34 at the interval.
Breakers most lethal scoring quarter came after the break as they put up 32 points. Head Coach Beddow, however, will no doubt be frustrated with the 26 points conceded in the same quarter.
Luke Gregory and Jordan Spencer helped restore the Breakers 18 point lead, before Arissol was on hand to net two from outside within a matter of seconds.
It was a real team performance from the Breakers, with Dante Langley, Mike New Jr and Chris Tawiah all adding to their totals in the third quarter before Buai Luak extended to lead to 27 with his lay up.
The Breakers could’ve been forgiven for easing up in the final quarter, but continued to be ruthless. Academy product Eric Arriaga netted his first points of the game late in the fourth before Jomi Omowa’s lay up took Breakers over 100 points brining the Bletchley Leisure Centre into rapturous applause.
Speaking after the win, Head Coach Billy Beddow noted his delight with his teams performance, but was also quick to highlight there is still a lot to be improved upon.
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Beddow also highlighted the impact of strength in depth, with both Chris Tawiah (14) and Leon Henry (11) hitting double figures for points – despite starting on the bench.
“I was pleased with todays performance. It’s early in the season so we all know we have a lot more to give and to improve on, but to start things off like that is a good sign of what is to come.
“Having bench points is such a game changer for us. Chris was dominant this evening and Leon was able to help settle us at times! It also helps us on these double header weekends to keep guys fresh and rotate everyone.”
Elsewhere, Beddow also spoke highly of his young players who were all handed minutes and contributed towards the victory.
“It will be a huge season for them personally. They’re academy players but are held by both staff and their team to the same standards. It’s great to be able to offer them that opportunity but even better when they step up and perform well. It’s also amazing seeing the crowd get behind them like that too.
“The crowd support is everything. We are most comfortable playing at home in front of them. The drums, the cheers and how much they celebrate with us and push us on is amazing. I know the players all appreciate it too.”
The Breakers have a quick turnaround as they take on Hemel Storm on the road tomorrow at 6pm in the KitKing Trophy Quarter Final. We anticipate a large number of travelling Breakers fans to be in attendance, tickets available here.
The team continue their Division 2 campaign next Saturday 7th October at home against Solent Kestrels, tickets and our October Game Pass are available to purchase here.
