Foxwell Leads Phoenix Past Breakers in Gritty Road Win

South East Melbourne Phoenix returned from a long break with purpose, turning up the defensive intensity to overpower the New Zealand Breakers 87–81 at Spark Arena on Sunday night.

The Phoenix forced the Breakers into 21 turnovers — the most by a Petteri Koponen-coached side — and closed the game with a dominant fourth quarter to seal their second win of the NBL26 season. Emerging point guard Owen Foxwell was the catalyst, delivering 19 points, seven assists, and four rebounds while hitting 4-of-6 from deep. His composure and defensive work on Parker Jackson-Cartwright, who was limited to nine points and six turnovers, proved decisive.

It had been 17 days since South East Melbourne’s last league outing, their schedule interrupted by the NBA exhibition against the New Orleans Pelicans. But they showed no rust, responding to an early wobble with poise and pressure.

The Breakers appeared in control at half-time after outscoring the visitors 31–13 in the second quarter to lead 46–34. But from there, the Phoenix flipped the script — producing 53 points to 35 in the second half as they locked in defensively and found rhythm from the perimeter.

Nathan Sobey had nine first-quarter points to set the tone, finishing with 18 and seven assists. John Brown III was everywhere — defending, rebounding, and passing — on his way to 13 points, five boards, five assists, and two steals. Next Star Malique Lewis showed flashes of star potential with 13 points and three triples, while Jordan Hunter chipped in 10 points and seven rebounds.

Sam Mennenga

For New Zealand, Sam Mennenga was outstanding despite the loss, dominating with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals. Rob Baker II added 14 points and four boards, but the Breakers’ offense fell apart under pressure. They committed 21 turnovers and took 19 fewer shots than South East Melbourne — numbers that ultimately told the story.

The Breakers’ 12-point halftime lead evaporated quickly as the Phoenix hit four straight threes coming out of the locker room, sparking a 16–4 run. From there, Foxwell took charge — orchestrating the attack, hitting clutch shots, and steering the Phoenix to a composed finish.

The result drops New Zealand to 1–5, with their only win coming midweek against Illawarra. South East Melbourne improved to 2–1 and continues to look like a balanced, defensively grounded contender.