NZ Breakers' season continues into another week of the ANBL playoffs after ending Sydney Kings' hopes of a third straight championship with victory in Wednesday's play-in qualifier.
Even without star import Anthony Lamb, the Breakers overcame a 47-38 halftime deficit and dominated the third and fourth quarters, to advance with an 83-76 win.
Victory was sweet revenge for the Breakers, who were beaten by the Kings in last year's finals series.
American guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright led the way with 34 points, while Zylan Cheatham (18) and Will McDowell-White (11) both put their injury woes aside to help the Breakers over the line.
McDowell-White returned to the court after injuring his shoulder at the end of the Breakers' regular season, while Cheatham appeared to hurt his ankle before halftime on Wednesday.
"These guys are so tough," said coach Mody Maor. "They care about all the right things, they care about each other and they are battle tested, because this season has been tough and we've seen everything and been through everything.
"Once I walked into the locker room at half-time, I knew we were winning the game because there was no sign of anything but determination and being focused on the task.
"It was fantastic and I'm really proud."
Victory means the Breakers will travel to face Illawarra Hawks on Monday, with the winner booking a spot to the ANBL's semi-finals.
Melbourne United will meet the winner, in a best of three series to earn a spot in the finals.
NZ Breakers 83 (Jackson-Cartwright 34, Cheatham 18, McDowell-White 11)
Sydney Kings 76 (Adams 18, Hogg 17, Hunter 10, Noi 10)
