NZ Breakers have fallen to another disappointing result across the Tasman, soundly beaten 102-88 by Illawarra Hawks in their opening game of the new NBL Cup in Melbourne.
The Kiwi side were unable to contend with the Hawks' onslaught from the perimeter, with the Aussie team sinking 16 of their 30 attempts from three-point range.
They were almost as impressive at the defensive end of the court, limiting the Breakers to just over 30 percent from three and forcing 22 turnovers.
American import Colton Iverson was one of their bright spots, notching a double-double of 13 points and 17 rebounds - a new season-high for the competition - in his best outing to date for his new club.
Tai Webster contributed across the board with 20 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, while brother Corey added 22 points, five boards and five assists.
Adding salt into Breakers' wounds was an injury to US import Lamar Patterson, who limped off the court during the third quarter.
"The second quarter hurt us a lot," Breakers coach Dan Shamir said, after his squad gave up 12 turnovers directly leading to 18 points for the Hawks in that period.
"We came in with the right mentality and attitude, but we broke very easily in that second quarter. Another tough day."
All teams are based in a Melbourne hub and will play each other over the next month.
Each team receive three points for every win across the 36-game tournament and an extra point for each quarter won.
The Hawks added 5.5 points towards their tally, while the Breakers gained 1.5 points in their NBL Cup debut.
The Breakers will play Sydney Kings on Thursday.
