‘I’d fairly us have the cash than Adelaide’
Sunday is looming as a large second for the NBL with the inaugural Ignite Cup Final between Adelaide and New Zealand going down.
While the 36ers have gained all three of the groups’ conferences throughout the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season, the Breakers’ probabilities of victory on the Gold Coast obtained a large increase on Wednesday.
Not solely will NBL Next Star Karim Lopez return to the lineup, so too will huge man star Sam Mennenga, who was initially dominated out for the season with a wrist damage.
“Initially, I wasn’t supposed to come back, but once we figured out it was possible, we did everything in our power to make it happen,” Mennenga stated throughout Wednesday’s media availability.
“[Honestly] the past few weeks have been an emotional rollercoaster, but I’ve learned plenty of it and am keen to build on it.
“In professional sports, there are plenty of highs and lows and lessons to be learned. It’s all about what you take away from them, progress and look to improve.”
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The historic Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Center fixture also presents the Breakers and 36ers the chance to take home a slice of the $400,000 prize pool, making the biggest winnings in the competition’s history.
“I don’t really care about the money, but I’d rather us have some money than [Adelaide] have it,” Mennenga stated.
“[In saying that] “We don’t need any extra motivation and we’re going to do everything we can to end the season on a positive note.”
Once full-time is known as on this season, Mennenga, who can be a free agent, says he has ambition to re-sign with the Breakers.
“I have no clue what the holds, I’m taking it day-by-day,” he stated.
“My main focus of late has been my wrist, so only time will tell.
“[In saying that] I love being back in New Zealand and love the direction the club’s going in.
“The professionalism they’ve shown this season [has been incredible] and I would be more than happy to come back, be a part of something [special] and help the club win championships.”
Sunday’s Ignite Cup Final ideas off at 4.30pm AEDT, reside on ESPN.
