Breakers aren't our bunnies: 36ers coach

Dec 29, 2017 - 4:31 PM Adelaide coach Joey Wright doesn't believe his side has gained any pre-NBL finals edge over the New Zealand Breakers despite three wins against the ladder leaders in the space of 19 days.

Friday's gripping 88-85 victory was the 36ers' third over the Breakers since December 10, which Wright puts more down to the quirks of the NBL draw rather than any sort of advantage acquired ahead of a possible playoff match-up.

"The way the draw is set, we've played them three times in the last couple of weeks," Wright said."

"(It can happen) if you're hot during a certain period of time.

"I just think our guys have done a good job during this period. They're a tough match-up for anybody."

Instrumental in getting the job done against NZ was import guard Shannon Shorter, who played the best game of his fledgling NBL career.

Shorter was inspired to reverse his indifferent form with the presence of his mother at the game.

"I was disappointed with the way I've been playing this season to this point," the well-travelled American, who has enjoyed spells in China, Argentina, Japan, Israel, Mexico, Turkey and France.

I don't feel like I've put my foot on the gas like I should have.

"Just from the standpoint of how the season has been flowing for me, I don't feel like I've hit that level I've been meaning to get to.

"I was really energetic because my mum hadn't seen me play in eight years so that was a big moment for me just to see her in the stands and cheer me on like I was back in high school.

"I feel like this game can set the tone for me now."

Source: AAP