2025-09-21

Melbourne 114 - 82 New Zealand

Melbourne secured a decisive 32-point victory over New Zealand in NBL play. The game was defined by a sharp shooting difference; Melbourne connected on 51.9% of their field goal attempts compared to New Zealand's 39.5%, a gap that translated into a commanding 114-82 final score. While New Zealand managed more offensive rebounds (17 to Melbourne's 16), Melbourne's superior floor spacing and ball movement were the deciding factors. Their 29 assists against only 10 turnovers reflected a structured offense that created high-percentage looks, whereas New Zealand struggled with 17 turnovers that the home team capitalized on effectively.

On the individual level, Melbourne's Jesse Edwards was efficient in the interior, shooting 9-of-10 from the field for 22 points. The team's perimeter attack was also effective, led by Milton Doyle's 15 points and 6 assists, while Izaiah Brockington paced New Zealand with 21 points but struggled from deep (1-of-5 on three-pointers). Melbourne's defensive pressure was evident in their 11 steals compared to New Zealand's 7, and their ability to maintain a lead despite a second-quarter lull (scoring only 21 points) allowed them to extend their advantage in the third and fourth quarters, ultimately leading to the blowout result.

Box Score Shooting Lineups