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New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers Tips - NBL Round 18

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  • New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers expert predictions for Friday’s Round 18 NBL matchup
  • Tip-off is at 5:30 PM AEDT at Spark Arena
  • Adelaide 36ers are strong candidates for a rebound against the Breakers.
  • The 36ers boast the best away record in the league at 8-2.
  • Adelaide ranks top in recent defensive ratings, giving an edge over Breakers.
bryce cotton
Bryce Cotton of the 36ers surrounded by team mates. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)

Breakers vs 36ers NBL Tips & Predictions


Adelaide shape as strong rebound candidates in New Zealand on Friday night, with a defensive edge that profiles perfectly against the Breakers’ offence.

The 36ers enter this matchup off consecutive losses for the first time this season, a factor that has softened the market in New Zealand’s favour. Historically, Adelaide respond well in these spots and boast the best away record in the league at 8-2.

New Zealand’s recent scoring surge needs context. Their wins have come against Illawarra, Cairns and South East Melbourne, all bottom-four teams in opposition scoring. Against top-tier defences, the Breakers have struggled to maintain efficiency.

Adelaide rank third in defensive rating on the season and first over the past ten games. They held New Zealand to just 79 points in the earlier meeting and are well equipped to slow this game down again.

Match Details: Breakers vs 36ers


  • Competition: NBL26
  • Match: New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers
  • Date: Friday, 23 January 2026
  • Start Time: 5:30 PM AEDT
  • Venue: Spark Arena

Best Betting Tips - Breakers vs 36ers


Adelaide 36ers -4.5


Adelaide have not lost three straight games this season and own the league’s best road record. Their defensive pressure and ability to execute late make them well positioned to cover.

Under 178.5 Total Points


Two straight meetings between these teams have stayed under the total. Adelaide’s defence ranks number one over the past ten games and New Zealand are likely to regress offensively against a tougher opponent.

Bryce Cotton Over 25.5 Points


Cotton continues to shoulder the scoring load in tight games. He scored 23 in the previous matchup and is averaging 41 points across his last three games against the Breakers, clearing this number in five of seven career games at Spark Arena.

Key Matchup to Watch


Breakers Shot Creation vs Adelaide Defensive Pressure


New Zealand rely heavily on PJC and Mennenga to generate offence. Adelaide’s ability to collapse the paint and contest perimeter looks will dictate whether the Breakers can keep pace.

New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers Frequently Asked Questions

What time does New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers start?

Tip-off between New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers is at 5:30 PM AEDT, Friday, January 23

What channel is New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers on?

You can watch New Zealand Breakers vs Adelaide 36ers on ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel.

Verdict

This shapes as a strong bounce-back spot for Adelaide. Their elite road form, defensive consistency and ability to slow the game down give them a clear edge. With the market shading toward New Zealand, the 36ers present value to snap the losing streak and grind out a road win.
Best Bet1: Adelaide -4.5 Line @9/10 at Pandabet - 3 Units
Best Bet2: Under 178.5 Game Total @9/10 at Elitebet - 2 Units
Best Bet3: B Cotton over 25.5 Points @7/8 at PlayUP - 3 Units
Adelaide -4.5
Line
@9/10 - 3 Units
Pandabet
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Bet at Pandabet
Under 178.5
Game Total
@9/10 - 2 Units
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Bet at Elitebet
B Cotton over 25.5
Points
@7/8 - 3 Units
Use Easyform
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Bet at PlayUP

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