The Benalla Breakers got their 2022-23 Country Basketball League campaign under way in fine style at Benalla Indoor Recreation Centre last Saturday night, coming away with an 87-83 round-one win over Albury Cougars.
It was business as usual for a number of the Breakers’ stars, but a handful of new faces donning the navy blue this season will have given coach Wally Armstrong plenty to look forward to this year.
Eric Miraflores seemingly picked up where he left off last season, dropping 19 points in his side’s home opener, while Lachy Kego also kickstarted the season in superb form with 21 points to his name.
A hot start from the Breakers had them carry a four-point lead into the first-quarter break, but a resurgent Cougars outfit swung momentum back their way to easily win out the second quarter 26-19.
Facing a 50-47 deficit at the half, the Breakers rallied after the break and surged to a commanding lead with a 26-16 third quarter.
Despite losing out the final quarter 17-14, Benalla held on and had enough in the tank to see out the 87-83 triumph.
Sam Beks will look to back up a fine season with the Shepparton Gators and got himself among the points with a 17-point game, while Jordan Munro and Jordan Birch (8) also showed plenty of positives in the season opener.
The Breakers make the trip to face Myrtleford Saints for round two this Saturday at Myrtleford Indoor Sports Stadium.